On Wednesday, Feb. 7, the Shiley School of Engineering in conjunction with the Career Center and Diversity and Inclusion for Engineers will host an event called “What Now in a #MeToo World?” to help spread awareness about workplace harassment. It will take place 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Buckley Center Auditorium with snacks provided.
“We want students to understand and recognize workplace harassment, know their legal rights, and be empowered as they enter the workplace,” Sharon Jones, Dean of the Shiley School of Engineering, explained.
At the event, there will be one speaker from Daimler Automobile Company and one speaker from Vestas, a wind energy company. Also, two people from the Human Resources department at the University of Portland will speak.
“This is an important issue on its own,” Jones explained. “And even more relevant given recent stories that we’ve heard about in the media regarding numerous sectors — entertainment, politics, technology, education, etc.”
Many celebrities, like Lady Gaga and Alyssa Milano, and other survivors of sexual violence have voiced their experiences as a part of the #MeToo movement in recent years, expressing their outrage for the number of assaults occurring. The hashtag has often been seen on Twitter or Facebook.
Along with a panel, members of the audience will also be given scenarios to work through.
“They will respond to four scenarios that we prepared to stimulate discussion,” Jones said. “There will be many opportunities for those who attend to provide their opinions and receive feedback.”
An evaluation will happen at the end of the event to receive feedback, in hopes of improving future events of a similar nature. And though this event is primarily for UP students, others can come and participate as well, Jones said.
