MP Cullen says Male MPs must work to combat sexual misconduct on Hill

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Meeshika Sharma
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Veteran NDP MP Nathan Cullen, says Male MPs must help to usher in a culture change on Parliament Hill and combat sexual misconduct. Cullen is looking to work with colleagues of all stripes to address inappropriate behaviour often viewed as a "public secret."publive-image

Cullen said the "ecosystem" of people who interact in and around the corridors of power —including support staff, lobbyists and parliamentarians  can create a space where professional and personal environments blur and challenges are created.

"There's long hours often away from home," said the Skeena—Bulkley Valley MP.

"There's a clear work environment but there's also the receptions ... and opportunities where people either intentionally do wrong or misunderstand the relationships that exist. That's what I have noticed."

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publive-imageEnvironment Minister Catherine McKenna — who has publicly pushed back over being called 'Climate Barbie' online — said there are examples of harassment on the Hill and other workplaces that must be fought, adding that movements like #MeToo will be effective only with action.

"If we don't take action on this, what example are we setting for the girls and boys?" Mckenna said.

"I have two daughters. I have a son, too. Are we going to make it ... better, safer, more equal for all of them?"

The Canadian Press conducted a survey last month of female MPs about their experiences with sexual harassment and found more than half of respondents — 58 per cent — reported they had personally been the target of one or more forms of sexual misconduct while in office, including inappropriate or unwanted remarks, gestures or text messages of a sexual nature.

Cullen agreed that men must be at the forefront of the discussion on how this can change, adding that change will also require an acknowledgment from men that they are part of the problem.

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