The Harvey Weinstein stories are making way for conversations across America. I’ve heard women talking about their own experiences more openly. It’s been interesting to hear and participate in these conversations. However, one question that I’ve heard over and over…one question that I must talk about…one question that we, as human beings, have to understand is “How did he get away with this for so long?”

I’ve been an employee is several companies throughout my life and I’ve seen and experienced the very thing being questioned. The simple explanation is the system is broken. Speaking out, coming forward, going to your manager, reporting to HR…yes there is a path but it doesn’t always work. The manipulative, controlling, sick behavior is recognized but not often corrected.

There are victims, women and men, living in fear of losing their job and ruining their career if they speak out. Let’s be honest, history has taught us to keep quiet. Heaven forbid that someone speak up and challenge authority in the workplace.

Seeing that positive action isn’t always taken and knowing something has to be done, you’ll often find a network of women and men who are aware of inappropriate behavior but unable to stop it. They pull others aside and warn them of predators in the workplace. While this may sound unbelievable to some, it is common. It happens in businesses, churches and organizations throughout America.

My first experience with this was in my early 20’s. I was called into a last minute meeting and my immediate supervisor stopped me to warn me about the man who called the meeting. She even offered to come interrupt the meeting in a few minutes in hopes that he wouldn’t have enough time to carry out his plan. He had a reputation for touching the young ladies in the office, making rude comments and openly treating women as objects instead of equals. I later learned that he had several complaints about him but nothing was done to him and most of the women who officially complained no longer worked there. Coincidence? I think not.

I’d like to say that this behavior is unique to that company but it isn’t. Time and time again…story after story…the names are different but the behavior is disgustingly the same. Whether it’s sexual in nature or just plain ole control, there are people in leadership positions that shouldn’t be.

So, while I’m glad that this conversation is public now, I am also sad that people continue to be victimized in the workplace. It’s only when we become aware and hold others accountable that we break this cycle and stop the need to ever ask “How did he get away with this for so long?”