In a compelling series of videos, actor Michael Jennings takes a stand against sexual harassment by showcasing relatable scenarios. The project, titled #ThatsHarassment, comprises six short films that are both cringe-inducing and unfortunately, all too familiar for many women.
Jennings, best recognized for his role on a popular sitcom, draws inspiration from the women in his life. He reflects on the stories of harassment shared by his mother and other female relatives. “My mom faced harassment while she was one of just a few women in her law school class. Every woman I care about has experienced it in some form, except for my young daughter, thank goodness,” he shared in an interview.
The original concept originated from his friend, Israeli-American director Lila Cohen, who created five short films addressing the topic after her own experience with harassment. Last year, Cohen released these films in Israel, and this year, she collaborated with Jennings to adapt them for an American audience, adding two new films to the series. “I wanted to visualize what sexual harassment looks like, rather than just reading about it,” Cohen explained.
The films effectively capture the nuanced experiences that many women face. In “The Coworker,” for instance, a man discusses a female colleague’s attractiveness while she responds with discomfort. This depiction resonated deeply with viewers, as it reflects common experiences women often push aside.
Jennings emphasized the pervasive nature of harassment throughout women’s lives, stating, “When you grow up being objectified and treated as lesser, it can be hard to even recognize harassment.” Each video features a male character—such as the Boss, Actor, and Politician—who engages in subtle acts of sexual harassment. Jennings aims to encourage victims and witnesses alike to speak up about such behavior.
He noted that harassment often occurs in professional settings, where power dynamics play a significant role. “People tend to stay silent due to fear of retaliation,” Jennings remarked. “When more people recognize and agree that something is wrong, it becomes easier for individuals to come forward.”
The series even addresses widespread harassment with a nod to a well-known public figure, with a character recalling a controversial comment made by Donald Trump. Jennings clarified that this is not merely a partisan issue but a societal one. “This isn’t about political affiliation; harassment affects everyone. It’s critical that our leaders model integrity,” he added, especially when considering the impact on future generations.
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In summary, Jennings’ video series sheds light on the often-overlooked nuances of sexual harassment, aiming to empower individuals to recognize and address these behaviors. By utilizing relatable scenarios, the project encourages conversations around a critical issue that affects many.