There's no doubt that sexual harassment, particularly in the workplace, is a rampant issue in American culture. In our current society, movements such as #MeToo and TIME'S UP have given a long overdue voice to women everywhere. The latest turn of events was spearheaded by a group of women at a Nike Headquarters in Oregon, which led to the departure of at least six male executives. In light of this situation, I can't help but beg the question: Why did it take this long for a change to be made?

I'm fortunate to work in a relatively safe environment. My management is amazing, and if there's ever a problem in regards to sexual harassment or misconduct, they are quick to take care of the problem. Of course there will always be those handful of customers who have no sense of boundaries—that’s a different story.

What about those who aren't as lucky? Admitting you are experiencing issues can be humiliating and uncomfortable enough as it is. I can't begin to imagine going to my manager with a complaint and being devalued and ridiculed. Then to be completely disregarded, told that my feelings are invalid, and left to be swept under the rug with God knows how many other occurrences? It's disgusting, and it's heartless. But most of all, it's bullshit.

Nike is just one out of millions of companies who have probably tried to cover up allegations of sexual harassment. Whether they're corporate giants or small town businesses, harassment should not be tolerated—no excuses. Just thinking of all the women (and yes, even men) who have been put in this position makes my blood boil. If I was in a position of power and one of my employees came to me with allegations of sexual harassment, you're damn right I'm going to do everything I can to make sure that employee feels safe again.

But why? Why protect someone who is doing harm and disrupting the workplace? Why ignore these claims, when all they do is justify the offender's actions? Why hide behind your authority, when you could use that power for good? Maybe it's because these men want to protect their own kind. Maybe they don't want to draw attention to any kind of scandal. Maybe it's because they are guilty themselves in some way. Or maybe, they're just dicks who lack all sense of compassion and morality.

The thing that really gets me, is that when these stories do surface, it's a thousand times worse when the problem has been going on for so long. If they were taken care of right from the beginning, it not only shows initiative and responsibility, but that they actually give a shit about the people working for their company. By letting these problems simmer, whether it's for months or years, they eventually boil over—and by that time, the mess is made and the damage is done.

Regardless of the reason, no one should be afraid to go into work everyday. No one should have to actively avoid a coworker or manager in fear of being harassed. No one should be belittled. No one should be faced with the choice of either stepping down from their position, or staying and dealing with the persecution.

I admire the women of Nike who took a stand for a change, and all the other people fighting against sexual harassment. But, as much as I commend these people, I still can't help but think this shouldn't be an issue at all. Yes, we've made progress—but we still have a long, long way to go.