Media Release – SARC & KCA Cancel Monarch Theatre Event
Southeastern Alberta Sexual Assault Response Committee (SARC) and Kind Communities Alliance (KCA) Cancel Monarch Theatre Event
With the recent disclosure of sexual and workplace harassment allegations involving the Monarch Theatre and unknown outcomes of the pending third party investigation the Southeastern Alberta Sexual Assault Response Committee (SARC) and Kind Communities Alliance (KCA) have decided to cancel the November 7th, 2015 screening of The Mask You Live In to be rescheduled at a later date.
SARC and KCA would like to applaud the current direction the City Centre Development Agency (CCDA) is taking with the introduction of an impartial third party to investigate these allegations. “Our organizations take allegations of harassment of any kind extremely serious,” says Christina Johnson, Executive Director of SARC. “Sexual harassment is a human rights violation and can cause traumatizing effects for those impacted, such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is our belief that all organizations and businesses, big or small, should have robust physical, verbal, and sexual harassment policies in place.” Resources for creating or updating a policy can be found at www.albertahumanrights.ab.ca.
“Harassment is a form of bullying and should not be tolerated anywhere, including in the workplace,” adds Corinna Roth-Beacome, KCA Chair. “Employees have the right to be treated with respect. If they are being mistreated, their concerns deserve to be heard and dealt with in a timely, fair, and professional manner.”
When it is brought to their attention, employers have a responsibility to end harassment, promptly investigate any allegations, and maintain the confidentiality of all parties involved.
Bystanders witnessing harassment can step in and interrupt (if they feel safe doing so) or offer support to the person being harassed by going with them to report the incident or to access services.
Anyone feeling harassed can file a report with their employer/supervisor, the Human Rights Commission, or any authority figures with power to make it stop. A report to the Human Rights Commission must be made within one year of the incident.
SARC and KCA would like to reiterate the importance of believing a person when they tell you they have been harassed or assaulted. Three words – ‘I believe you’ – can alleviate immediate trauma and encourage a person to seek help. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harassment, assault, or abuse you can contact SARC by phone at 403-548-2717 or through our website at www.mhsarc.com for additional help and support.
For comments or more information please contact:
Christina Johnson, SARC Executive Director
Ph: 403-548-2717