SAG-AFTRA, the Hollywood union that represents actors, has decried a long string of alleged sexual misconduct by movie mogul Harvey Weinstein.
“The behavior alleged on the part of Harvey Weinstein is abhorrent and unacceptable. Unfortunately, it is more prevalent than our industry acknowledges and many times victims are afraid to tell anyone,” the union said in a statement.
The union joins some of its individual members like Meryl Streep, Kate Winslet and Judi Dench in decrying the alleged misconduct — which was reported on at length in a bombshell New York Times story published last Thursday.
SAG-AFTRA joined a chorus of show business voices applauding the women who came forward, which included actress Ashley Judd, for their bravery.
“We support their right to speak out and we lift up their voices so that their truths can be fully heard. Everyone has the right to work in an environment free of discrimination and harassment,” the union said.
On Sunday, TWC’s board of directors voted to terminate Harvey Weinstein as the Co-CEO of the company he founded 12 yeas ago.
Underscoring their mission to protect actors, the guild ended its missive with resources for any performer who might be a victim of similar behavior detailed by Weinstein’s accusers. Read the full remarks:
“We commend the courage and candor of every woman who has spoken out about the disgraceful, aggressive and inappropriate behavior they experienced with prominent industry employers. We support their right to speak out and we lift up their voices so that their truths can be fully heard. Everyone has the right to work in an environment free of discrimination and harassment.
“The behavior alleged on the part of Harvey Weinstein is abhorrent and unacceptable. Unfortunately, it is more prevalent than our industry acknowledges and many times victims are afraid to tell anyone. Those who do come forward empower themselves and others to speak out.
“We also commend the New York Times for the extraordinary reporting that uncovered and brought to light the allegations in this case.
“We believe that each of us has a fundamental right to be safe in our person and to be treated with dignity and respect at work. There is more to be done by all of us to ensure the safety of women in the industry.
“We operate the SAG-AFTRA Safety Hotline specifically for members to report safety violations including harassment and inappropriate or aggressive behavior.
“If you are being coerced or threatened or simply feel that a situation is not right or is uncomfortable – speak out. We hear you. Call 844-Safer Set any time day or night and a dedicated SAG-AFTRA rep will be notified and will help address your concerns.
“We all have the absolute right to be safe at work.”