“We have policies, procedures and training in place that are specifically designed to prevent sexual harassment at our company and company-owned restaurants,” the company said. “We firmly believe that our franchisees share this commitment.”
Although, during later talks with the Associated Press, McDonald’s admitted to working on “evolving” its training, procedures and policies pertaining to sexual misconduct.
Sexual Harassment and #MeToo
The upcoming strikes of McDonald’s employees come in the era of the influential #MeToo movement. #MeToo began as a means of pushing back against sexual harassment, particularly in the workplace and in Hollywood. However, some have said there are adverse side effects of #MeToo.
Some people have warned that people could use the movement as a weapon and falsely accuse enemies. Others have noted the damaging and potentially career-ending impact of accusations of sexual misconduct, even without proof.
While #MeToo critics typically acknowledge that sexual impropriety should not happen, they also say the movement has reached extremes.
