#MeToo campaign sweeps social media

Sexual harassment is a difficult subject for many women to discuss. But in light of a number of allegations against film producer Harvey Weinstein, women are stepping out of the shadows and into the spotlight and speaking out about sexual harassment with 2 simple words: “me too.”

Actress Alyssa Milano was one of the first to share #metoo, calling for other women to do the same. She tweeted, “if you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet.”

We sat down with the staff of the Coachella Valley Sexual Assault Services to talk about the campaign. The nonprofit provides free counseling and support services.

“The wonderful thing about that is it gives them hope. If a woman thinks this can’t be talked to, I can’t open up, come out. It’s a great way because it gives them hope,” said campus liason Darryl Abroguena. “So we are kind of their guardian angel. We hold their hands throughout the process at the hospital and examination process and also following up with them and calling them to make sure they’re OK.”

The best thing anyone can do if they’ve experienced harassment is seek support.

“Seeking social support first ’cause sometimes we don’t know the right actions to take. Talk to our family members. Ask them for help,” Abroguena said.

People we talked to think this campaign is a rallying cry.

“Women are coming forward and sharing their stories and by doing so they’re able to seek help instead of bottling the emotions in,” said Alix Guillory.

The staff hopes more men and women come forward to share their stories and get the help they need.

As of Tuesday morning, there were more than 1 million tweets with the #metoo and more than 12 million posts, comments and reactions on Facebook.

To find out more about resources available to sexual assault victims click here.