Women are utterly fatigued. We’re worn out from being the emotional caretakers, shouldering the invisible burden of keeping track of everyone’s needs. From remembering birthdays and organizing parties to managing family relationships and handling childcare, we juggle countless responsibilities that often go unnoticed. The emotional labor we perform is immense, and it becomes even more exhausting when we consider how this same dynamic contributes to a culture of sexual harassment and abuse.
When we come forward with our experiences, we’re often met with skepticism. If we share our stories, we risk being labeled as hysterical or accused of seeking attention or revenge. What do we gain from accusing someone of sexual assault? Where’s the reward in that? In reality, many women face intense scrutiny and judgment for simply speaking their truth. We are expected to keep everything together, and admitting we’ve been assaulted or harassed—while also assigning blame—disrupts the delicate balance we’ve been forced to maintain.
To those who question whether all women experience harassment, let me clarify: nearly every woman I know has faced unwanted advances or worse. The encounters range from the shocking to the traumatic. If I were to recount my experiences—the man who exposed himself on my walk home, the boyfriend who betrayed my trust in a horrific way, and the countless men who reacted with hostility when rejected—I could fill pages. The fact that we navigate our lives with the weight of these experiences is a heavy emotional burden.
Despite the trauma, we strive for a better life—for ourselves and our children. We aspire to create a just world, yet the burden often falls disproportionately on men, who face consequences only when their actions are publicly called out. This is not a fair exchange.
As difficult as this moment in time is, there remains a glimmer of hope. I want to see more men who have harassed women live in fear of the consequences of their actions. It’s time for women to support each other, to believe each other, and to demand that our stories be heard, even if they are initially dismissed. Every time a woman speaks out, she empowers another to follow suit. Silence only serves the oppressors.
Men like Eric Thompson and David Lee have taken steps to confront these issues, and we need more allies like them. However, the emotional work cannot fall solely on women. Men must engage in their own introspection and take responsibility for their roles in perpetuating a culture that undervalues women.
Have you considered whether your words and actions contribute to a culture of respect? It’s critical for men to reflect on their past behaviors and to hold each other accountable. We are not here to do this labor for you, and if you choose to ignore it, the repercussions will inevitably return to haunt you. Many of us are tired of being taken for granted—emotionally, socially, and sexually. Change is on the horizon.
Welcome to the reality of emotional labor.
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In summary, the responsibility to combat sexual harassment and create a supportive environment rests with men. Women are ready to share their struggles; now it’s time for men to reflect, acknowledge, and act.