In 2011, I drew a cartoon that, in hindsight, was juvenile, tasteless, and made light of a very serious problem – sexual harassment in the workplace. With the hindsight of 13 years of life experience, I now understand that this is not a topic that is appropriate for humor.
On September 17 someone alerted me that the cartoon was still online. I immediately took it down, and will not share it in the future.
I recognize the pervasiveness of sexual harassment and how taking advantage of power in the workplace is still too common. I was able to make a joke about it because I have the privilege to have not experienced it, and I am reflecting on that especially as I am running for political office and the power that comes with it. Especially in positions of power, I believe there is an obligation to accept responsibility for your impact with humility and empathy.
I have grown as a person since I drew this, and I have also learned a lot about the nature of trauma. I am truly sorry for the pain I have caused by not considering how the cartoon could trivialize and trigger survivors’ experiences.
I want to be clear: I condemn sexual violence, sexual harassment, emotional abuse, and physical violence. If elected to town council, I will listen to survivors and support policies to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace and beyond.
I strive to treat others with the dignity and respect with which I want to be treated. I have made mistakes, and I work hard to learn from them and take responsibility for them. I promise that I will keep listening, learning, and striving to do better.
​​
Sincerely,
Kevin
9/18/24
​
​