Growing up in a household of women, we engaged in numerous discussions about various topics. However, when sexual abuse infiltrated our lives, perpetrated by someone we loved and trusted, it was a subject that remained largely unaddressed. Instead, it was minimized, concealed, and treated as a mistake that should be forgiven, leaving the perpetrator—who was a “respected” family member—without consequences.
I was the one whose voice was stifled. I had to navigate the aftermath alone, trying to process and heal, while the individual who hurt me, and likely many others, faced no repercussions. This silence was a result of how uncomfortable my experience made others feel; they chose to ignore it, and I was left to bear the burden and consequences of something I did not do.
This pattern is all too common in cases of sexual assault and misconduct. The offenders are often protected, while the victims must endure immense emotional turmoil just to survive each day. It becomes our responsibility to speak out, to share our stories and raise awareness about the toll it takes on our mental health. For many, the fight becomes too arduous, leading to resignation.
We are often told we should have acted differently—said no, screamed, avoided certain situations, or dressed more conservatively. The burden of preventing the assault is placed on the victim, while the denial from society punishes them further. From a young age, we are conditioned to comply with authority figures, whether they are family, teachers, or colleagues. In the workplace, we learn to respect our superiors and fear the repercussions of speaking out, which often leads to a culture where abuse can thrive unchecked.
Men do not become predatory overnight; such behaviors are ingrained over time. As a mother of two teenage sons, I feel a strong obligation to teach them the right lessons about respect and consent.
Statistics reveal that one in four women experiences sexual harassment at work, with many leaving their careers as a result. Conversely, I wonder how many men have departed their jobs due to feeling unsafe. The male-dominated “Boys’ Club,” once a hidden culture, is now being exposed by women who are tired of the status quo and are fighting to enact change.
It is our duty as parents to clarify the so-called “blurred lines” that are really quite clear. Consent must be understood as affirmative and enthusiastic. It involves asking someone if they want to engage in intimacy, respecting their feelings, and recognizing that consent can be revoked at any time. Importantly, if someone is under the influence, they cannot provide valid consent.
Sexual misconduct is a serious issue, and we cannot afford to overlook the importance of discussing it openly with our children. A useful resource for fostering these conversations is the show The Morning Show on Apple TV. The character, portrayed by Greg Johnson, embodies the kind of entitlement and ignorance that perpetuates this culture. His dismissal of the harm he caused to women in the workplace is infuriating.
What stands out in this series is how the women affected are not always vocal in their resistance; they find themselves in compromising positions, desperately wanting to escape. When they seek help, they are often silenced, while the perpetrator remains shielded for far too long.
Conversations about sexual misconduct should be ongoing. This show resonated with me profoundly, and I believe it can be a crucial tool for educating my sons about the toxic male culture that persists. If they aren’t learning about these concepts from me, they will undoubtedly be influenced by others, and I’d rather guide them myself.
For further insights on related subjects, check out this other blog post on Home Insemination. Additionally, for authoritative resources on home insemination, visit Make A Mom and Healthline.
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In summary, The Morning Show serves as a powerful narrative that emphasizes the importance of understanding consent and the impact of sexual misconduct. It is essential for parents to engage their children in these discussions, ensuring they are informed and empathetic.
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