The #MeToo movement empowered millions to speak out about sexual violence and changed the default response to women's accounts from universal doubt to selective belief. What changed?In this episode, guest host Sarey Ruden speaks with Leigh Gilmore to discuss her book, “The #MeToo Effect: What Happens When We Believe Women”. They delve into the transformative impact of the #MeToo movement, exploring the evolution of societal responses to women's accounts of sexual violence.A central theme revolves around the power of survivor testimony and the collective strength that arises when survivors speak together, challenging the status quo and paving the way for systemic change. The discussion underscores the importance of reframing the narrative, moving from a focus on individual stories to addressing institutional and cultural factors that perpetuate sexual violence.Some topics we cover include:

The transformative influence of the #MeToo movement

Evolution of societal responses to women's accounts of sexual violence

Tracing historical roots of gender biases

Shifting from universal doubt to selective belief

The power of survivor testimony and collective strength

Reframing the narrative to address institutional and cultural factors

Urgency for institutional change

Transcription is available hereBuy The #MeToo Effect: What Happens When We Believe WomenSareytales

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