It would be difficult for anyone to not be familiar with the Lehrmann/Higgins case. What was once a case for government action by the Liberals led by Scott Morrison has deteriorated into political mud-slinging. From this ongoing dispute, one thing has become evident. Entitled white men created the patriarchal system that is our government, with no consideration for the diversity of society. These abhorrent actions are designed to scare off other courageous women like Brittany Higgins from coming forward and charging perpetrators of sexual abuse.

In November 2021, 63% of female parliamentarians declared they had been sexually harassed.

In fact, one MP told the review;

“Aspiring male politicians who thought nothing of, in one case, picking you up, kissing you on the lips, lifting you up, touching you, pats on the bottom, comments about appearance, you know, the usual. The point I make with that … [w]as the culture allowed it, encouraged it.”

(https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-59472194).

            This is another example of the hegemony dominating Australia’s government institutes and—in a filter-down process—society. The hierarchical patriarchy will fiercely protect misogynistic control. The government is supposed to represent all walks of Australian life, but the lack of diversity in this hegemonic group proves otherwise. It is therefore in their vested interests to oppress Higgins and any others brave enough to come forward publicly and threaten the status quo.

These actions are examples of coercive control—no different to what happens in an abusive relationship.

            It serves the purpose of silencing those courageous enough to say publicly, “It happened to me”. We must cry out— “It’s not acceptable”. We need, now more than ever, to stand by that 63% who put their hands up to being sexually harassed—not to remain silent. Calling out all cases of sexual harassment is the only way we can stop these pervasive beliefs in our society because it’s not okay and it shouldn’t be “the usual”.

Shame and guilt dragged me under the thumb of patriarchy.

            I speak from experience. For over four decades, I was ignored, disbelieved, and accused of being a liar. I became those things. It took forty years, but I stood up and I’m pleased I did. My charges of sexual abuse were upheld. And, today, I am no longer a victim of a crime. Since the police were uninterested, I had to take the civil prosecution route, which brought comfort and finally, I was heard and believed. Anyone who has suffered domestic violence, rape or sexual harassment should consider the alternative route of civil prosecution where police action is unsatisfactory. I won’t lie. It takes a huge toll on you—as evidenced by Brittany Higgins. Though each voice, each win, is a nail in the coffin of patriarchy. We must stand up and fight against this abuse.