Wave of Harassment Claims Erupts in Colombia Amid #MeToo Movement

In recent weeks, Colombia has witnessed a significant increase in sexual harassment allegations, particularly within the media sector, spurred by the #YoTeCreoColega movement. This initiative emerged after Caracol, a prominent Colombian television channel, suspended two well-known journalists, Jorge Alfredo Vargas and Ricardo Orrego, following allegations of sexual misconduct. The movement gained momentum as Juanita Gómez, a journalist who experienced harassment in 2015, publicly shared her story, stating that the ability of others to report their experiences provided her with a sense of “divine justice.”

The Guardian

The #YoTeCreoColega movement has encouraged numerous female journalists to come forward, with over 220 reports submitted through a dedicated email address. The movement has also expanded beyond journalism, with allegations surfacing from various sectors, including education and healthcare.

The Guardian

The repercussions of these allegations have reached the political arena, affecting the administration of President Gustavo Petro. Notably, the vice-minister of equality resigned after sending an unsolicited nude photo to a subordinate, which he claimed was sent in error. Additionally, the women’s caucus of Petro’s party has called for the removal of Hollman Morris, the director of the state-run media network RTVC, who faces formal accusations of sexual harassment from two women. Colombia's human rights ombudsman, Iris Marín Ortiz, highlighted the challenges victims face in accessing justice, stating that “women who claim to be victims of sexual harassment are being criminally prosecuted while the alleged aggressor remains” in a position of power.

The Guardian

In response to the growing movement, Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo has initiated measures to facilitate investigations based on social media reports, eliminating the need for formal complaints. This includes the establishment of a private reporting email for victims.

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Caracol's decision to terminate the contracts of Vargas and Orrego was framed as a protective measure rather than an admission of guilt, with the network emphasizing the need to maintain public trust. Vargas expressed his belief in having acted respectfully throughout his career, while Orrego's legal representation underscored his right to the presumption of innocence, noting that no formal judgment had been made against him.

The Guardian

Despite the progress made, critics argue that systemic issues remain entrenched in Colombian society. A 2020 survey by the University of the Andes revealed that 60% of female journalists reported experiencing gender-based violence at work, predominantly from superiors. Activists like Paula Bolívar Pinilla and Catalina Botero have vowed to ensure that the movement leads to lasting change, emphasizing the importance of breaking the silence surrounding harassment.

The Guardian

• “These conversations have already happened elsewhere, so it was about time to put this on the table here as well,” — Juanita Gómez, Journalist

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• “Women who claim to be victims of sexual harassment are being criminally prosecuted while the alleged aggressor remains the director of the largest public media network in the country,” — Iris Marín Ortiz, Human Rights Ombudsman

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• “I’m going to give every day of my life to ensure this movement is not in vain nor just a Twitter trend,” — Paula Bolívar Pinilla, Co-director of Brava News

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• “I sincerely hope that silence is no longer an option for anyone, for any young journalist who enters a media outlet with so many dreams in her head and heart.” — Catalina Botero, Former Caracol Presenter

The Guardian

The #YoTeCreoColega movement represents a pivotal moment in Colombia's ongoing struggle against sexual harassment, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change across various sectors.

The Guardian