A message from Senator Tammy Baldwin
Aug 15 at 8:42 AM
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Senator Tammy Baldwin <do_not_reply@baldwin.senate.gov>
To: bumfam5@yahoo.com
Dear Ms. Bumpke:
Thank you for contacting me about workplace harassment. It is good to hear from you on this important issue.
Our nation is at a turning point as we begin to seriously confront the pervasive problems of sexual misconduct and sexual harassment. Until recently, many people did not speak out about allegations of sexual misconduct because they believed they would not be treated seriously or they would not be believed at all. Those who did have the courage to speak about their experiences in the workplace risked their jobs and their futures.
Over the last few years, a number of women and men have found the courage to speak out about their experiences. These brave individuals have forced our nation to confront this issue and hold offenders accountable. I believe we must take all such allegations seriously, and I have spoken out about them without any regard to position or political party.
On April 9, 2019, I was proud to join Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) in introducing the Bringing an End to Harassment by Enhancing Accountability and Rejecting Discrimination (Be HEARD) in the Workplace Act (S. 1082). This legislation gives workers more information and training on workplace harassment and their rights in the workplace. It puts forth requirements for reporting on how often harassment occurs, invests in research to study the economic impacts of harassment and discrimination and strengthens rights and protections for workers. The Be HEARD Act is currently pending action by the Senate Committee on Health, Labor, Education and Pensions, on which I serve.
Please know that I will continue urging my colleagues in the Senate to take action and pass this legislation swiftly.
Once again, thank you for contacting my office. It is important for me to hear from the people of Wisconsin on the issues, thoughts and concerns that matter most to you. If I can be of further assistance, please visit my website at www.baldwin.senate.gov for information on how to contact my office.
Sincerely,
Tammy Baldwin
United States Senator
I do apologize for the delay in posting an update. My time has been spent adjusting to a new job and getting my kids ready for school. I love my new job and the people I work with. My experience didn't start off perfectly, but how the situation was handled, was a perfect example of great leadership, support, excellent communication and respect, and helping people move forward and become better than we were yesterday. I plan to share my stories in detail. I want to be a part of change and share my story instead of watching others take the steps needed to be heard and make things happen.
We need to continue to push for better laws that protect employees. If you are someone who has experienced harassment of any kind, or retaliation, or bullying, or unfair treatment, share your story here. If you have been the perpetrator of unfair treatment, or bullying and harassment, share your story if you have realized how wrong and hurtful it is and the consequences of your actions the other person suffered. We are all imperfect human beings. We make mistakes. We have not treated others the way we want to be treated. We have had anger and bitterness and taken it out on others. We can make past mistakes right by stopping the behavior and bringing light to this problem our country has - bullying, retaliation, harassment, need for control and power, pride, egos, and negative attitudes.
Together - We can be HEARD!
Tonya