This is the second part of a multi-part series where online bullying and harassment highlighted. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with digital personality Liana Kerzner about the recent revelations surrounding sexual harassment, misconduct, and assault in society. This piece provides background information on the discussion before detailing the interview with Liana. The first entry in the series can be seen here.
The Serious Conversation
Since revelations of Harvey Weinstein used his power in order to bully women into uncomfortable situations, among numerous other serious allegations against him - conversations concerning sexual harassment, misconduct, and assault have become the center of attention within the United States.
The reemergence of the #MeToo campaign, which was launched in 2007, by activist Tarana Burke has been a source for men and women to share their stories of dealing with sexual improprieties. In October, she spoke about the movement to Ebony:
It wasn’t built to be a viral campaign or a hashtag that is here today and forgotten tomorrow, it was a catchphrase to be used from survivor to survivor to let folks know that they were not alone and that a movement for radical healing was happening and possible.
The movement has empowered many to come forward and speak of ill conduct of many powerful individuals in film, music, and politics. However, the conversation has also uncovered multiple hurdles which stand in the way of creating a safer environment for everyone.
Actor Terry Crews came forward about an experience he had with prominent agent Adam Venit of William Morris Endeavor (WME). Yet, Crews has been pressed to give the agent a pass; who he has recently filed a lawsuit against after Venit was only suspended from WME for a month.
Others have devolved into sex-shaming accusers, while incidents calling for fake accusations to be brought up have also disturbingly crept into the conversation, and another portion of individuals only chooses to critique the actions of those they disagree with on a political level.
Each of these factors contributes to the complex conversation currently surrounding sexual misconduct in the United States, which has led to Rep. John Conyers, Sen. Al Franken, and Rep. Trent Franks to all step-down from elected Congressional seats.
Marion Brown speaking of her experiences with John Conyers.
What Lies Ahead
Al Franken’s resignation speech
Society is currently at a pivotal tipping point, where either advancement could happen in regards to sexual violence or result in no change at all. A slew of investigations concerning allegations is likely to occur, while the nature of power dynamics in the workplace over decades past will continue to come under scrutiny.
A number of difficult conversations will need to happen for change to manifest. Tarana Burke states how we should move forward to achieve a better society:
Every one of those hashtags is a human being. There is a person behind that who is sharing something of themselves that is deeply personal. Part of the job is to find out what they need she said. #MeToo is about helping people find those resources. If we don't center the voices of marginalized people we're doing the wrong work. The message is no different now than it was 10 or 11 years ago.
Introducing Liana Kerzner
A graphic promoting Liana’s newest project.
Liana Kerzner is a digital personality and a strong voice in the video game community, having produced hours of content discussing feminism in the gaming industry. Her series A Gamer's Guide to Feminism details the history of the movement and how it relates to modern gamers.
Her comedic wit, outgoing presentation style, and willingness to tackle hot-button issues surrounding feminism has allowed her to build bridges and educate those who are new to conversation.
In my conversation with Liana, she discusses the recent revelations surrounding sexual harassment since the Harvey Weinstein allegations, the importance of the conversation, and how society can move forward in the most constructive manner to diminish the prevalence of sexual assault.
She also speaks about the importance of nuance in reporting surrounding the issue and how she came to be interested in covering the topic and why the conversation needs to be inclusive of all demographics in society and what solutions need examination in order for effective results to become ingrained in society.
The Full Interview With Liana Kerzner Can Be Seen Below
To keep up with Walter’s journalism you can follow him @GentlemansHall on Twitter