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Mark Halperin - Deserving of Forgiveness?
Brigitte Kimichik • August 25, 2019
Mark Halperin - was fired late 2017 from NBC and MSNBC after two dozen women accused him of sexually inappropriate behavior and assault during his tenure at ABC more than a decade prior, “including rubbing his erection on them through his pants” (which Halperin denies). Not quite 2 years later, he is resurfacing
with a political news letter, as a guest on a SeriusXM talk show, and a new book deal with Regan Arts to be published in November. “How to Beat Trump: America’s Top Strategists on What it Will Take,” for which Halperin interviewed 75 top Democratic Strategists, including David Axelrod and Donna Brazile.
Has @MarkHalperin atoned for his #abuse and #sexualharassment in the #mediaworkplace? The 75 Democratic strategists who are helping Halperin to rehabilitate his career, including the publisher, think so. NBC, MSNBC, CNN and ABC have all stated that Halperin will not be welcome to promote his book.
What do you think the 🔑 to forgiveness is for Halperin? 🤔
Proper atonement‼️His original statement of apology to the media was lacking. 😡 He apologized but continued: “some of the allegations that have been made against me are not true,” making his apology vague and calling some of his accusers liars. 😤An apology should acknowledge personal responsibility and avoid denials or minimizing. Admitting to the behavior and apologizing directly to his accusers by name is a good first start.
Having ‘admonished’ him publicly is not enough either. In the eyes of many, he must properly atone and redeem himself. How? First, he should admit his behavior publicly and apologize to his accusers and reference them by name. Emphasize that they are not liars and do so without qualification. 😠 He must understand after proper counseling what constitutes ‘unwanted physical contact’ and why his behavior constituted sexual harassment and was destructive to his victims. He should show real remorse and share what he is doing to rehabilitate himself. Communicate that he is facing the consequences and is learning from his mistakes. 🔑 Given his notoriety he should commit to tell his story and educate others what behavior is not acceptable. His words will have impact.
Finally, he could then ask for forgiveness, although he should not expect to be forgiven for a long while. Halperin - remember what damage you caused to the women you harassed. 😤They will be living with the trauma for the rest of their lives. Your words of sincere apology and commitment to educate others will set your victims on a good path of recovery. Proper redemption will be tough but the road to redemption might make you a better person. Forgiveness simply because of passage of time is assuredly not sufficient.
You must hold yourself accountable to #changetheculture to a more healthy and prosperous environment, free from #abuse and workplacesexualharassment. #TimesUp. Let’s #playniceatwork. For more on this and related topics, check out Play Nice - Playground Rules for Respect in the Workplace, and join us at the www.thesandboxseries.com.
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“The Red Zone" is the time period at the beginning of each school year from September through November when women (and men) are at the highest risk of sexual assault and illegal hazing. Spiking of drinks and excess consumption of alcohol are often a catalyst, so taking precautions and not being a bystander are critical. Read my blog for more information on what actions to take.
The Sandbox Series™
Addressing Workplace & Campus Issues