Demand Top Sponsors Create Safe Spaces and Effective Reporting for Sexual Harassment
The Issue
Did you know that a staggering 47% of women and 16% of men have experienced sexual assault, harassment, or rape within the climbing community?
Shockingly, many of these assaults are perpetrated by sponsored and celebrity climbers and guides- individuals who wield significant influence and power. Despite the prevalence of these violations, the media often only acknowledges a few of these cases, leaving countless voices unheard and dismissed. Its time to shine a light on this pervasive issue and demand accountability from those who exploit their status to perpetrate harm. We must stand together to create a safer and more inclusive climbing community for everyone.
We call on our prominent sponsors—especially brands like The North Face—to take a stand against harassment. As influential leaders in the climbing community, your involvement is crucial for driving meaningful change and creating personal codes of conduct to hold your athletes accountable. Without immediate action, our beloved sport risks losing its spirit of camaraderie and belonging.
We urge you to enforce zero tolerance policies for sexual harassment, particularly among sponsored athletes. Holding athletes accountable is vital not only for protecting individuals but also for maintaining the integrity of the sport. When sponsors take a firm stance against unacceptable behavior, it sends a powerful message that harassment will not be tolerated. This accountability helps cultivate a culture of respect and safety, making it clear that everyone, regardless of their status, must adhere to the same standards of conduct.
Additionally, by implementing effective reporting systems and creating safe spaces for all climbers, you foster an environment where individuals feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation. This is essential for building trust within the community and ensuring that all climbers can pursue their passion in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
By taking these steps, you will not only enhance our community but also inspire new climbers to join us confidently. Together, we can make climbing a safer space.
Join us in this mission. Sign the petition to demand our sponsors take bold actions to protect and support our community.
The On Belay Act Campaign aims to raise awareness about sexual harassment in climbing, particularly involving well-known climbers and mentors. We seek to hold individuals accountable while encouraging major sponsors, like The North Face, to implement effective reporting systems. By spreading awareness, we can create a safer, more respectful outdoor environment for everyone.
For more on this campaign and related social issues, visit rosewildewrites.blogspot.com.
Most Recent Cases of Sexual Harassment and Assault- This only accounts for the cases that have been reported by the media and not the many cases that go unreported:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/31/sports/mountaineering-sexual-harassment-abuse-nims-purja.html
https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/climber-charles-barrett-assault-trial/
How The On Belay Act Could Change Climbing Forever:
The Issue
Did you know that a staggering 47% of women and 16% of men have experienced sexual assault, harassment, or rape within the climbing community?
Shockingly, many of these assaults are perpetrated by sponsored and celebrity climbers and guides- individuals who wield significant influence and power. Despite the prevalence of these violations, the media often only acknowledges a few of these cases, leaving countless voices unheard and dismissed. Its time to shine a light on this pervasive issue and demand accountability from those who exploit their status to perpetrate harm. We must stand together to create a safer and more inclusive climbing community for everyone.
We call on our prominent sponsors—especially brands like The North Face—to take a stand against harassment. As influential leaders in the climbing community, your involvement is crucial for driving meaningful change and creating personal codes of conduct to hold your athletes accountable. Without immediate action, our beloved sport risks losing its spirit of camaraderie and belonging.
We urge you to enforce zero tolerance policies for sexual harassment, particularly among sponsored athletes. Holding athletes accountable is vital not only for protecting individuals but also for maintaining the integrity of the sport. When sponsors take a firm stance against unacceptable behavior, it sends a powerful message that harassment will not be tolerated. This accountability helps cultivate a culture of respect and safety, making it clear that everyone, regardless of their status, must adhere to the same standards of conduct.
Additionally, by implementing effective reporting systems and creating safe spaces for all climbers, you foster an environment where individuals feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation. This is essential for building trust within the community and ensuring that all climbers can pursue their passion in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
By taking these steps, you will not only enhance our community but also inspire new climbers to join us confidently. Together, we can make climbing a safer space.
Join us in this mission. Sign the petition to demand our sponsors take bold actions to protect and support our community.
The On Belay Act Campaign aims to raise awareness about sexual harassment in climbing, particularly involving well-known climbers and mentors. We seek to hold individuals accountable while encouraging major sponsors, like The North Face, to implement effective reporting systems. By spreading awareness, we can create a safer, more respectful outdoor environment for everyone.
For more on this campaign and related social issues, visit rosewildewrites.blogspot.com.
Most Recent Cases of Sexual Harassment and Assault- This only accounts for the cases that have been reported by the media and not the many cases that go unreported:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/31/sports/mountaineering-sexual-harassment-abuse-nims-purja.html
https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/climber-charles-barrett-assault-trial/
How The On Belay Act Could Change Climbing Forever:
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Petition created on October 5, 2024