In this New York Times Op-Ed, readers discuss Daphne Merkin’s view that it’s time for some perspective. Splitting hairs between what constitutes sexual abuse and what constitutes flirting is a discussion that parents should have with their adolescent children, and not
require scrutiny in a public forum.
Similarly, in South America, Pope Francis must confront the crimes of a Chilean priest, Fernando Karadima, who was protected from punishment for decades. Now is the time to draw a line in the sand and end this abomination. How clearly can it be stated? Abuse by people in positions of authority is not OK!
In yet another industry, male fashion models and assistants described how Mario Testino and Bruce Weber, two of the most prominent photographers in fashion, used their authority to engage in unwanted sexual behavior.
It is both shocking and encouraging that so many people from so many walks of life all over the world are stepping out from behind the shadows and becoming activists. It appears that this is what it may take to teach people right from wrong and remind them of the ethic of reciprocity – The Golden Rule – “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”
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