If you’re feeling a bit foggy on what harassment really means, a series of eye-opening (and somewhat cringeworthy) videos might just do the trick. Titled #ThatsHarassment, this project features five short films crafted with care and starring some familiar faces. The initiative, spearheaded by actor and director Jake Turner, aims to shine a light on everyday instances of sexual harassment that far too many women experience.
Turner, widely recognized for his role in a popular sitcom, draws inspiration from the women in his life, including his young daughter. “I grew up listening to stories of harassment from my mom. It’s disheartening that every woman in my family has faced it, except for my daughter, who’s only 6,” he shared during an interview. His mother, a trailblazing lawyer in the ’70s and ’80s, faced her own share of challenges in a male-dominated field.
The idea for this project came from Turner’s long-time friend and director, Maya Cohen. After experiencing harassment herself, Cohen produced five impactful short films in Israel, which were later adapted for the American audience with the help of Turner. “I wanted to visualize what harassment really looks like, rather than just reading about it,” Cohen explained. “Most portrayals are either overly violent or unrealistic. There’s a gray area that needs to be shown.”
Each video showcases a scenario involving a man—whether he’s a Boss, Actor, Doctor, Coworker, Photographer, or Politician—subtly crossing the line with a woman in his life. Turner emphasizes that the purpose of these films is to encourage individuals to find the courage to speak up when they witness or experience harassment. “Harassment often occurs in professional settings, and it’s deeply tied to power dynamics,” he noted. Fear of retaliation often silences witnesses, making it essential for bystanders to support one another.
In one of the films, a character references a well-known quote by a public figure regarding harassment, underscoring that this issue transcends political affiliations. “This isn’t just a liberal Hollywood issue,” Turner clarified. “It’s about character, and it’s distressing to think about explaining this behavior to my daughter.”
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In summary, these videos are a crucial reminder of the subtle yet pervasive nature of sexual harassment. By shedding light on these uncomfortable situations, they aim to foster awareness and encourage open conversations about the issue.