Washington’s dirty secret exposed: sexual bullying
Previously it seemed inconceivable that Capitol Hill, Washington’s venerated seat of Congress, might be a den of sexual assault, with cases occurring almost around the clock.
Now, though, CNN reports that more than 50 people have exposed the dirty secret in the halls of power.
According to the whistleblowers, male lawmakers who sleep in their Washington offices can be trouble. Being alone with a congressman or senator in an elevator can be dangerous. And they say victims should consider the consequences before speaking out about sexual harassment by their powerful boss.
Members-only elevators designed to give lawmakers easy access to the House and Senate floors are described as the most dangerous places for minor female officials and even lawmakers. Trapped in these confined spaces, they have found themselves sexually assaulted by male superiors.
Meanwhile a “creep list”, passed on by word of mouth among Capitol Hill office workers, features a roster of males of higher ranks who are notorious for sexual harassment.
According to CNN’s report, half a dozen interviewees named one California congressman for preying on female staffers, while another half a dozen pointed to a Texas congressman engaging in sexual bullying. Thus far, the two names have been withheld.
Wow!
Chavalit Wannawijitr
