Today, a state senator resigned after facing accountability for harm in the workplace. This is not the first time that somebody has experienced harassment or harm in the workplace known as the Nebraska State Capitol. And this is not about the actions of one senator but about a culture that has for too long normalized sexual assault and abuse.
For years, there has been a pattern of denying or delaying support for Nebraskans who experience gender-based and sexual violence.
The outcome today sends a sign to every survivor across our state that everyone deserves a workplace that is free of gender-based violence. When sexual harassment occurs in a public setting, survivors are watching and waiting to see how people will react and what actions will be taken. When those actions fail, survivors can feel failed by systems all over again. As our one legislative body, lawmakers must continue to uphold the highest standards as both a workplace and governing body to shift the culture for all Nebraskans.
The work is not done with the removal of one person. We will continue to center the needs of survivors and work to ensure they have the support they need in all spaces and communities.