#MeToo brings awareness to sexual assault, harassment

Women from Callaway County and around the country are posting on social media to raise awareness about sexual harassment and assault.

"In my professional opinion, it's good to see more awareness to come to this topic," said Kasi Lacey, a licensed psychologist and executive director of Westminster College's Wellness Center. "I'm very proud of individuals who are willing to share their stories (because) it gives hope to those who aren't ready yet, and helps them feel less alone."

Lacey serves on the board for CARDV (Coalition Against Rape and Domestic Violence) and lists sexual assault and trauma as one of her research and clinical interests.

According to the Associated Press, the #MeToo campaign was brought back to people's attention by actress Alyssa Milano. She tweeted on Sunday that women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted should post "me too" to "give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem."

The campaign - created by activist Tarana Burke 10 years ago - has resurfaced following the allegations by multiple women that film producer and former studio executive Harvey Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them. Dozens of women have made allegations in recent days, some dating back decades. Weinstein denies non-consensual sexual activity, the AP said.

Since then, millions have posted using the hashtag on social media sites. The campaign bears similarities to past hashtags like 2014's #YesAllWomen, in which women spoke out about abuse and injustices they faced.

Lacey said national statistics point to a high rate of harassment and assault.

"For college campuses, they tend to say one in four or five women from 18-24 will experience sexual harassment or sexual assault," she said. "I think these situations tend to go under-reported, because our society tends to struggle with things like sex, especially with that added element of interpersonal violence."

One 2011 study found 38 percent of employed women reported facing sexual harassment in the workplace, according to stats from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. While men can also be victims of assault and rape, statistics from anti-sexual violence organization RAINN say nine out of 10 adult rape victims are women.

Lacey thinks sharing experiences through social media can help survivors.

"It can be therapeutic to individuals to put that kind of information out there and share their stories, let other people know they're not alone," she said. "There's a sense of unity, even if it's through trauma."

Not all survivors are ready to share, however, and Lacey said such individuals shouldn't feel guilty. However, she suggested survivors take caution when browsing and posting the #MeToo hashtag. Seeing stories can trigger traumatic memories for survivors, she said.

"(Sharing #MeToo posts) can also lead to questions in their lives," Lacey added. "It could open up old wounds in some ways. If people come asking questions like 'What happened?' that isn't therapeutic to anyone."

Overall, Lacey said campaigns like #MeToo are good for society and survivors.

"Awareness is that first key that we can start working towards prevention and proper responses to the topic," she said.

Victims of sexual harassment and assault on Westminster's campus can seek help and counseling at the Wellness Center. CARDV serves the entire community, and its help line is 573-642-4422.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.