The Women Of Australian Music Have Penned A Shocking Open Letter Telling Their Experiences Of Sexual Harassment

Hundreds of women working in the Australian music have signed an open letter calling out sexual harassment and assault in the industry.

The letter, which has been signed by the likes of Tina Arena, Claire Bowditch, Mahalia Barnes and Sarah Blasko outlines the harrowing experiences of many women employed in the industry. It was published this morning by The Industry Observer. 

The letter begins:

“Together, we give a voice to these issues and demand zero tolerance for sexual harassment, violence, objectification and sexist behaviours. There is no place for sexual entitlement in the workplace and in our industry. Change starts today.”

It continues to share the stories of the signees, warning: “We have names of perpetrators. We know the same names that are repeated in unrelated circles.”

The women include artists, musicians, managers, lawyers, booking agents, record label employees, publicists and more.

Some of the anonymous allegations include the following:

WARNING: The stories and language below may offend some readers:

My head has been pushed towards a colleague’s crotch and held there despite me saying no. 

***

Working backstage for a huge international act, their tour manager looked me in the eyes and as he told the room there were only two types of women: bitches and sluts.  

***

A well-known music manager who has a wife and kids would constantly insist that I have sex with him. When I finally stood my ground, he stopped working with me and stopped talking to me.

***
After meeting at a festival, I was sent an unsolicited dick pic by a CEO even after declining his offer to come back to his office that was “very dark, had booze and cocaine”.

The letter concludes:  Together we say #meNOmore.

The full open letter can be viewed, and signed, here.