Workplace Sexual Harassment: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

With a national dialogue underway about sexual harassment in the workplace, John Oliver sits down with Anita Hill to discuss the recent response to a not-so-recent problem.
Connect with Last Week Tonight online...
Subscribe to the Last Week Tonight KZbin channel for more almost news as it almost happens: / lastweektonight
Find Last Week Tonight on Facebook like your mom would: / lastweektonight
Follow us on Twitter for news about jokes and jokes about news: / lastweektonight
Visit our official site for all that other stuff at once: www.hbo.com/lastweektonight

[@DimaRakesah]

"HR exist to protect the company from liability" Former HR admin here. It's 101% TRUE.

[@gloriamrales-king8606]

Oh man! That suuuuucks!! Who's going to protect the employees?

[@DimaRakesah]

@@gloriamrales-king8606 No one. That's the way companies want it.

[@gloriamrales-king8606]

@@DimaRakesah Nice 😐

[@CBNL1987]

The why US Labour Law sucks! In my country the employer is liable by default in case of damages related to the employment. The employer had the burden of proof to prove otherwise because they have legal duty to care for their employees. US law are made to strengthen the strong and weaken the weak.

[@DimaRakesah]

@@CBNL1987 Here it's basically assumed the average employee is a lazy moocher.

[@jasminaalm]

I testified against my attacker. He was convicted, and went to jail. Now he is a registered sex offender. Anita Hill was who I held in my heart. She helped me be strong!

[@mommyofone646]

Beverly Jensen that's amazing. I wish all cases went that way.

[@Bizzmillah]

Except the ones where the woman is lying.

[@jasminaalm]

And an MRA Incel shows up to share his tears. Lucky us.

[@mommyofone646]

Bradshaw learn how to read asshole. All cases should go the way of the truth where the wrong party is held accountable. Also there are so few cases where the victim is lying that it is an insignificant number compared to cases where they're not. Fuck off with that bullshit.

[@Nor1MAL]

diana ibarra, if that number is between 2% and 10%, that is not an insignificant number! If you have numbers lower than that, please link them!

[@ariannaellie3087]

“Should they be terrified of this conversation?” “Well not if they’re not harassers.” Perfect

[@olotocolo]

in another words: police should be able to search your hous at any point, after all you dont have anything to hide, right?

[@violetlove3580]

Riiiight??? Omg hearing that felt like such a triumphant moment 🏆

[@ladygeneveve3805]

​@@olotocolo ah yes, because talking about a problem is the same as having your house raided

[@cnew5612]

@@olotocoloyou are so dumb,how are you still alive

[@Aethelia]

@@olotocolo In "another" words: Stop harassing women.

[@mohonamukherjee2511]

The one young black lady( Anita ) standing up and testifying to a panel of old white men is just such a picture of courage ❤️❤️

[@msushi98]

I can’t imagine how daunting that must’ve been. Almost as if the system was trying to set her up for failure from the start 🧐

[@pawn000000]

​@@msushi98was Dr

[@timepass9259]

Pp

[@Halgame99]

Yeah of white is problem she can to West Africa and live in harmony

[@dobermommartha]

I’m old enough to remember her testifying in front of that panel. I remember her stating how she had found Mr. Thomas’ pubic hair in her Coke can and I was mortified for her. I knew that those men would rake her over the coals, which they did, but I believe she came out classier than that whole room.

[@AlexChristian]

Lol, I come from the future: Tucker Carlson just got accused of sexual misconduct. Explains a lot of his tone in that clip.

[@kaystevens8428]

That and the fact that he's just a duck.

[@MrHistory269]

Even if nobody accuses him of sexual harassment. I am almost certain that he’s harassed a women at some point in his life. But he makes so much money for Fox News. They won’t fire him they would loose money.

[@averagejoe6031]

Mhm

[@monniebunce3084]

Taylor Tomlinson had a great quote: consent is a sound she makes, not a feeling you have

[@mathewstafford7943]

You can see this in so many facets of society. People who get irrationally angry or defensive at things that don't have anything to do with them in that moment (or shouldn't) seem to be the very people that do those things. It's a funny behavior and we all do it to some degree. We will project our own insecurities, guilts or problems in ways that others can notice if they just pay attention.

[@slushu_6865]

Honestly, idc if you’re a man or woman, don’t touch people without their consent. Period.

[@richlaw5136]

Imagine youre a baby in a womb and someone's about to touch you with a vacuum.. does it still count?

[@slushu_6865]

Rich Law Oml I’m dying

[@danchostanchevyordanov1577]

Especially now, with the virus in place.

[@OatmealTheCrazy]

@Desperadox23 there's a disparity, sure, but men getting sexually harassed is by and far a less common issue, and one that will also be helped by measures to curb the problem for women

[@OatmealTheCrazy]

@Desperadox23 many people talk about how toxic masculinity harms men as well. In this case it's a double helping since TM also gets men mocked when they complain about it.

[@stevenhageman8255]

imagine feeling so entitled to women that you can't fathom a work place where you can't touch them or say sexually charged comments towards them

[@robb1324]

The men that believe that are definitely on the sociopath spectrum.

[@gomahklawm4446]

Notice the people so worried about it are conservatives.....no surprises there. Consent is not a thing they agree with.

[@stinkybritches8174]

You look EXACTLY like the dude who sexually assaulted my ex. You might be if that’s your real name. Typical male feminist

[@lapislazarus8899]

I complained about an immediate supervisor who would say sexually inappropriate things to me, and then deny my vacation requests as punishment for not engaging with him in his smarmy behavior. He did that with most of my male coworkers too, if they wouldn't "bro out" with him. He got mad that I needed to take a whole day off to go to court for my restraining order against my ex-husband. He was like, "Court isn't until nine." My schedule was 6am to 3pm. I was like, "That doesn't give me any time to get dressed and drive, find parking, etc" So he got all, "Why can't you come in when you're done?" "Because I don't know how long this will take!" I was at the courthouse until 5:30! His ex-wife has a restraining order on him for getting pervy with their young daughter. I lost that job because of him.

[@deedeedan8681]

​@@lapislazarus8899 Jesus every sentence was worse than the last! Im so sorry that happened to you and hope that supervisor will, excuse my french, end up at the bottom of a lake

[@Leo-dw9zl]

After seeing this I started saying “i dont get it“ or “can you please explain that?“ whenever somebody, not just at work, made/makes discriminating jokes. So far, over last few years, It's been quite effective. And tbh, it's also quite funny seeing someone trying to justify horrible mind gymnastics. Worth it!

[@Killmaisy]

😂100%

[@lisahenry20]

It was a tip I heard a while ago and it really does work. It either shows who is trying to be offensive and so you know to avoid or otherwise deal with them, and who is making thoughtless comments and can learn that those kinds of comments are inappropriate.

[@ForeverMe543]

“How could you let yourself be molested” basically what that lawmaker said and I cannot explain the anger I feel at that.

[@samuelpentowski6077]

Indeed. It's a sad state of affairs when such a question is asked at all, and even worse when it is by a US Senator and then validated and discussed as a legitimate question in the media. Yet fun questions like that and more were asked during that hearing.

[@Amber-sc9jp]

That was incredibly infuriating to hear him ask how she could allow it to go on. I was raped 3 weeks ago and my dad had the audacity to ask me how I could allow the man to get off scott free without reporting him. We don't have a good relationship.

[@Real_SkyRipper]

but really how did they let it happen? it's USA you can buy a gun anywhere, take advantage of that law and just have a gun at all times.

[@GaSeRGuanoApes]

@@Amber-sc9jp Perhaps he did ask that because he does not understand. Me myself, I have no idea how could I possibly let some guy rape more women by not reporting him. This very thought of "he could be raping another girl right now and tomorrow and the day after because I sit here and do nothing" would make me report him no doubt.

[@Toneill029]

I could, like you want to pummel a face into a fine paste.

[@jenniferjuniper97]

"...there are no innocent bystanders." God bless you, Anita Hill.

[@BlueberryWizard]

i don't particularly like that sentence, in an idyllic world, yes .. bystanders should act, but in many cases most people are socially unable to for whatever reason, instead of blaming them, lets solve the issue at the root instead, throwing blame around is more harmful than helpful, i'd just punish the offender harshly to statuate an example that such behaviour is unacceptable and compel them to cease or face the ramifications.. but that can only come from a person with a stronger power-position than the offender, because you run the risk of harming your own life if you are not in a strong power-position, while it might be the right thing to do, most people don't want to take that risk... and i fully understand it, i don't agree with it, but i get it. if *i* spot anyone doing something inappropriate, you can bet your damn socks i will let them know what they just did is unacceptable, regardless of gender, "race" (we're all humans), or social standing.

[@BlueberryWizard]

@@spanningset9568 I don't defend them, I say I understand...

[@skinnie2838]

Anita Hill admitted to lying under oath at least 5 times and the morons in this comment section are acting like shes credible. Unreal. She lied, you morons. She lied about Clarence. The democrats tried the same thing on Brett Kavanaugh decades later. More lies. No evidence ever shown. Just witnesses with stories that were proven false with relative ease. This right here is exactly why we should NEVER 'believe all women' simply because they say a thing happened. They lie.

[@akumamakima2280]

​@BlueberryWizard remember when an elderly asian woman was brutally beaten and the men who wouldn't let her into their establishment because they were scared were charged for that. So yes that statement is true regardless of their fear. People hurt each other all the time because of ignorance, it doesn't change the fact that in their ignorance they still harmed someone.

[@dracaroni.n.cheese]

The fact that Anita Hill is open to comedy with this topic is absolutely amazing.

[@skinnie2838]

Anita Hill admitted to lying under oath at least 5 times and the morons in this comment section are acting like shes credible. Unreal. She lied, you morons. She lied about Clarence. The democrats tried the same thing on Brett Kavanaugh decades later. More lies. No evidence ever shown. Just witnesses with stories that were proven false with relative ease. This right here is exactly why we should NEVER 'believe all women' simply because they say a thing happened. They lie.

[@lizard3755]

The men out there saying they're terrified to be alone with a woman now finally understand how women feel at the prospect of being alone with men like them Edit: People have rightly pointed out that the fear women feel when in that sort of situation is absolutely not the same as the fear of people who claim to be terrified of false accusations of sexual harassment. I didn't phrase my comment well and it wasn't right of me to try to equate the two. No one should have to be in a workplace where it's even a concern for them that they might face sexual harassment and the discomfort people like Tucker Carlson claim to feel in regards to being alone with a woman cannot compare to how people who deal with sexual harrassment feel and how their lives can be impacted by those incidents.

[@RAHelllord]

Funny is also we'll probably hear allegations against those people in the future because misconduct in the past is likely the reason they're sweating like pigs. Case in point: Tucker Carlson

[@Tuffsmoygles]

@Baka Sussy not entirely accurate. Very few women will fake a report, but it does happen. And there are valid reasons to claim false rape. Example: Monetary gain, producing an alibi to another crime, revenge, mental illness (false memory syndrome). The idea that only men can be shitty monsters is diametrically opposed to the idea of equality. Sure there are women monsters that would do any of the above things. That beings said the more accurate statement is the rarity of these individuals. it's a very tiny percentage. I don't believe in the court of public opinion though and that's where a lot of these cases are being tried. So guilty men frame the narrative that "it could happen to you!" to scare average guys into being on their side. This issue requires criminal reform though, not public pile-ons, because every time someone is found to be innocent it just gives the shitty monsters of men more ammo against legitimate crimes.

[@g.d.graham2446]

Exactly

[@highteck9982]

Kinda, but still not the same, they are only afraid of their bad actions getting caught.

[@starcherry6814]

Not really. Women and girls are afraid to be alone with men because they could be assaulted Men are afraid to get an allegation… The two are not the same

[@ji718]

Taylor Tomlinson had a great quote: consent is a sound she makes, not a feeling you have

[@barkaviouswarmack4748]

Just saw her Netflix special. She's good

[@Raz.C]

@Jibrail Nor I like the sentiment, but in all honesty it seems wildly impractical. I've NEVER asked a girl "Can I kiss you?" or "Can I fuck you?" I can't imagine how awkward it would be to do so. Of course, I'm not talking about workplace intimacy here. I've only ever once dated a girl I worked with and that ended badly (she was fired for stealing ~$1,000- from the till, which put a strain on our relationship). But if we're talking about consent, rather than workplace harassment, then I firmly promote/ endorse _Implied Consent_ in place of overt/ express consent. But then again, maybe I've just been lucky? Maybe I'm sexy enough that any advances I've made on girls were never unwanted advances - I can't be certain. I like to think that I'm perceptive enough that if she wasn't into me, that I'd recognise her unwillingness before making any unwanted advances. Hells, there was this one girl, she came into the bar I was working in and we started chatting. In conversation, I told her quite honestly that- like my friend who we'd recently discussed- I was a sleaze. That I'd seduce her, fuck her and never bother calling her again. She refused to believe it, went home with me and still fucked me for 8 of the 10 hours between my shifts at works. I spent the next two weeks diligently avoiding her until the day before she left to go on holidays overseas. The only question I ever really asked her was "Can I make you a coffee/ would you like a coffee?" (although I did make that coffee, we never drank any of it). I guess my point is: _"Consent is a sound she makes..."_ if by _'sound she makes'_ you're also including sighs/ moans/ non-verbal indications of appreciation, then I wholeheartedly agree!!! If, however, the implication of _'sound she makes'_ = verbal affirmation (ie: 'yes, you can kiss me/ fuck me/ lick my nose/ jizz on my armpit'), then I vehemently oppose this notion, as it shatters any kind of intimate mood and makes it feel like we're both kindergarteners playing doctor...

[@sannestrijd2978]

Razar Campbell I’m only really responded to one bit (so sorry if this comes off ignorant) but in fairness, as a young woman, ‘can I kiss you’ is something I here more often than not hearing it in media nowadays, and it’s ingrained into fan fiction culture. So for me, I’d be a little weirded out not to be asked, unless the progression was very natural and we were both thinking the same thing pretty obviously. Maybe it’s a generational difference though, and unless I was forcefully kissed against my will and it intimidated me - I don’t think I would be upset about someone getting the wrong signals and kissing me, and stopping once they realised.

[@jasonsimmons4319]

@@Raz.C bruh if you really think getting explicit consent is awkward then you need to gain a little maturity... Yeah you can get consent by VERY obvious physical reciprocation of actions, but if there is any gray area, you NEED to ask. If you think asking is awkward, think how awkward it will be when someone twlls you they felt pressured in to doing someyhing they didnt want to because you were too aggressive and they felt unable to say no. Now THAT would be awkward.

[@TheStaticEmbrace]

@@jasonsimmons4319 So much this! In the forever wise words of my mother - If you're too immature and uncomfortable to talk about it, you shouldn't be doing it.

[@jasondouglas152]

As a man , I was honestly sexually harassed for almost 6 straight months at my job by the owner ( who's female) I was finally fired for coming in 2 minutes late ( at a commission paid job with no hourly pay) When I finally thought to myself " I should do something about this " I had 5-6 attorneys basically laugh me off the phone and another 4-5 email me saying they were not available. I finally contacted an attorney about 200 miles away that didn't know my boss, then I was told I waited too long and there's absolutely nothing I can do about it. Male or Female ... The law does nothing whatsoever to help victims of sexual harassment ( especially in a smaller town) And as a man getting harassed by a woman , you will never be taken seriously

[@wowanothercookie]

That sounds incredibly frustrating, what a horrible person! I hope you find a job where you don't have to put up with any of this shit...

[@sophiewang8157]

I think since in most cases, it’s a “dominant man” harassing a “submissive woman,” it’s hard for people to think or believe in cases where it’s the other way around. I’m glad you were able to share this experience, it must of been really difficult for you. I think we both need to stop men sexually harassing women, but also erase the disbelief about women harassing men.

[@ashleylytle5556]

And you should be able to receive the justice that so many other men and women deserve. Men aren't heard enough and I'm so sorry you had to go through this. I hope you get your justice ❤❤

[@paulasanders508]

I’m sorry

[@AmbyJeans]

Jason Douglas I just posted about my husband's recent sexual harassment at work by a female. I know exactly what you mean. As little as people believe female accusers they *REALLY* don't believe male accusers.

[@Remrie]

This episode needs to be mandatory in every employee training program regarding sexual harassment

[@MrBrewman95]

This is why remote work is amazing. The possibility of sexual harassment ever occurring is next to zero and people can record it on Zoom or Teams which makes it a major deterrent.

[@stregalilith]

Yes! An experience like that makes one want to stay home forever.

[@annareads1532]

And occasionally you get to see people's housepets. Everybody's day is automatically made because Fuzzball the Cat decided to wave his butt in front of the camera.

[@starRushi]

It’s annoying that the main way we can be communicated to is “Imagine she’s your daughter or sister.” Why can’t we just be told, “imagine it’s a PERSON” That’s just sad.

[@Dreamer12888]

*THIS* It is overused and never seems to change a person's perspective. Why do you have to imagine someone you know being a victim of harassment to be able to empathize? I think a shift in perspective would lead to better discussion/awareness about sexual harassment.

[@myfriendscallmek2745]

@@Dreamer12888 because that phrase actually comes from misogynists too lolol. It implies women as the object in relation to your fellowmen, not as people. I really think women and men need to start beating the shit up of this haters gang if they ever wanna respect. You've got empathic human beings and then you have people for which we have a penitentiary system in place. Some people just DON'T CARE about others unless it hurts them in the process

[@ItsJustBrenton]

The phrase isn't the problem. Remember that. If you have a jerk who feels entitled to this kind of behaviour the thought is to get them to realize their victim IS a person - the Sister/Daughter part is to lean into it being a person the jerk actually has some respect for. It's saying what you're saying basically. The people who perpetuate this kind of jerk act could be self-centric, only caring about themselves. Or just think the person isn't someone they're gonna interact with much so what's the harm. Or they just won't face consequences so why not. I mean even presuming their mental state is guessing - each case is different. So again the phrase isn't a problem. The problem is the act. Changing the message for some nuance isn't gonna make it work more. It's just a phrase.

[@tiagogazollaaun5670]

F

[@starRushi]

@@ItsJustBrenton While I'm annoyed at the fact, I still understand there's a reason it's the way it is. It's useful, but that doesn't mean I have to like it, I guess.

[@rrbaggett7]

John Oliver seems to be an extremely decent human being. He's empathetic, modest, endlessly curious & genuine.

[@vishusharma8566]

No, he just reads from a script written by talented writers who have good understanding of contemporary issues and take the non controversial perspective of any issue.

[@emilychb6621]

@@vishusharma8566 Non controversial for the liberal side of the US political spectrum. It's still extremely controversial for the so called conservatives. And partially for actual leftists.

[@psyc8407]

maja horvat Number 1: Fix your grammar. Number 2: If I can recall correctly, Sweden and Belgium are not dictatorships, and most modern communist countries have outright illegalized homosexuality and any media that appears to promote it.

[@momo1461]

@@majahorvat6279 Lay off the bath salts.

[@FabFunty]

​@@majahorvat6279 You're obviously didn't benefit of much schooling / education, free or not. Why are you obsessed by other peoples sexuality and whom they chose to live together in freedom, with asocial and health security and even such controversy ideas like that a good schooling / tuition is free. it's huge factor for a good economy and taking care of each other is called SOCIAL NOT SOCIALIST and it prevents you of ending up in a homeless shelter with a family of 5, when loosing your job. Seeing nationalism and oppression of others and even fascism growing all over Europe again should worry us more than gay marriage. *And it was Sonny & Cher not Stevie*

[@phoenixgate007]

I’m rewatching this and I’m still in awe of Anita Hill. Ma’am, you dropped this 👑

[@MorganChaos]

i really like that john put himself out there and said "how should i feel other than ashamed, and what should i do?" none of this is instinctive and, like he said earlier in the piece, it's okay to ask! you just have to be willing to listen to the answer.

[@zainaman710]

I was harassed at my workplace and when I complained, my male superiors told me to just enjoy! I'm a man and the woman went as far as stealing my car keys to keep me from leaving the office. I left that workplace. Gender harassment goes both ways!

[@VanessaAbeyawardena]

I am sorry that happened to you and how they reacted.

[@zainaman710]

@@VanessaAbeyawardena thank you

[@nerd2219]

Yes, I think in general the victims of sexual harassment wether male or female are put down and discouraged from speaking out. If you’re a woman then you’re “that girl” you’re “too sensitive” and you’re accused of false allegations. If you’re a man, you’re seen as weak, you’re told it’s not possible for a woman to harass or rape a man and you’re not believed because it “can’t happen”

[@zainaman710]

@@nerd2219 then there is a class of both men and women who tell you to "give it a try" and want gossips.

[@fairy5668]

@@zainaman710 Woah 'give it a try'? I've never heard of that

[@jaysonburke799]

This genuinely made me tear up. When John asked "It's kind of sad that that's not an instinctive reaction, isn't it?" he sounded so sincere and empathetic. Like you could see the hurt he could feel for his actions or lack there of. Even leading up to it she gave him the answer and it was so obvious to just ask someone how they're doing that he was nodding at how obvious it was. That really resonated with me. Some people just don't know. A lot of people I think are good people but genuinely don't know what to do for others. I really do hope this video helps people learn. But most importantly I really do hope they can empathize with real situations women have gone through.

[@abigailpew8383]

That was a pretty raw interview, at the end when she was schooling him. I'm so glad we have both of these people.

[@CCNuck]

I love how you a can tell that Anita Hill is a professor - her tone when getting John to reflect is such a great example of teaching.

[@orionhunter4855]

I noticed she often didn't give him direct answers, instead helped guide him to come up with the conclusions on his own. That I feel is the best way to get someone to absorb what your point is.

[@hughjazzole2037]

oH BLOW ME!! SHE S A N ASSHOLE. SHE WAS A SHITTY INVESTIGATOR,THERE WERE CIGARETTE PACK SHAPED RECORDERS AT THE TIME SHE COULDVE RECORDED HIM & SHE DIDNT HAVE THE BRAINS TO DO IT

[@servicepreneur]

Yes Valancy. I wish I had the same courage when I worked at a giant fortune 100 company. Software companies are notorious for harassment. I wrote about it here: thriveglobal.com/stories/how-i-have-empowered-myself-to-thrive/

[@AnupamBam]

She came across as extremely kind, despite being at the receiving end of injustice. Felt humbled by her.

[@BaddKittyProductions]

Interesting thought, I didn't notice the tone. I just saw her as poised, intelligent and impressive. I'll have to watch it again.

[@jenniferojie9073]

“Was your house wearing something flammable?” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@lukabell4607]

That character is really similar to philosophy tube’s arsonist

[@opheliaismyname9180]

Or "did you look conspicuously wealthy?" (Tracey Ullman)

[@mat2000100]

(Cries in Grenfell Tower)

[@SCP--ck5ip]

We wouldn't have to question this shit if Sarah didn't make fake rape claims getting poor little timmy arrested for no reason.

[@alenasenie6928]

this is a valid question, so bad example

[@fiona_6714]

As a customer service worker, harassment is EVERYWHERE!!! Almost every time I work there will be at least one man that comes up and says something gross or even will TOUCH ME!!! One time I was stocking the bottom shelf and was on my knees and a man that had to have been at least 60 came up and said "Finally got you girls on their knees!" And then bent down and put his hand on my back. I couldn't yell at him like I wanted to because I could've gotten fired, so I just awkwardly laughed and walked away. This shit needs to stop.

[@annareads1532]

Spent 8 years in clothing retail, and YES THIS. Had a man old enough to be my father follow me around leering at me, so I finally got exasperated and asked him "Sir, is there anything I can help you find?" His counterpart (older white lady, also about parental age compared to me, I think she was his wife but I don't want to assume) was out of earshot, so he stared me up and down and said "I see all I want in here" so I'm trying hard not to barf and I just kinda go "Uh... you couldn't afford me tee hee" like in a half-jokey way so hopefully he wouldn't either go to my manager or actually hit me. (This is Georgia, men go right straight to hitting REAL quick.) He bows up at me like he's GOING to hit me and goes "I can afford anything I want!" He waited until the end of my shift and I had to summon security to ensure he didn't follow me to my car. Again, this is Georgia, so he was probably conceal-carrying.

[@txjbwuvji2621]

@@annareads1532thats so horrible my god. The audacity of this guy is astounding, I hope the security guy understood your situation

[@skinnie2838]

Anita Hill admitted to lying under oath at least 5 times and the morons in this comment section are acting like shes credible. Unreal. She lied, you morons. She lied about Clarence. The democrats tried the same thing on Brett Kavanaugh decades later. More lies. No evidence ever shown. Just witnesses with stories that were proven false with relative ease. This right here is exactly why we should NEVER 'believe all women' simply because they say a thing happened. They lie.

[@jnielsen90]

Everytime you work.....where do you work, a strip club. If this happens daily you should look forward to yelling at them and getting fired. Leave that workplace today.....how do you even consider staying and enduring that, by not saying something everytime it happens you are "silently" giving the harassers you're consent to continue the bad behavior. In reality you are part of you're particular problem as well here

[@siriusputsch1842]

That interview with Anita Hill, and especially John's self-critical introspection and admission of shame, makes this one of the best interview pieces ever on this show. 10/10

[@DimaRakesah]

John: "He just left without washing his hands" *2020 has entered the chat*

[@annimationislife]

lmao good one

[@leespike101]

lol

[@SentientPotatoXIII]

I was just thinking that 😂

[@jocawthorne7718]

Ah man, I'm dying at this. For real, I can't breathe.

[@flexitarianbeanqueen]

Yeeeaahh.. but... hand washing has always been considered... ya know... good. (sincerely, your 600th like)

[@LegendOfMoonDragons]

If you're worried you might make a work colleague uncomfortable with a hug, ASK if they'd like a hug. It's not hard. It's not awkward. And it means you're respecting them and their space.

[@shadowtiger1905]

Amen!

[@abasudoh7459]

Or just go for a hand shake.

[@knupmc5559]

Or better yet, don't do it.

[@braesidebikes4344]

why do you even need to touch the people you work with? like, if they want a hug, maybe they can ask for one? so weird when people go around assuming others are interested in physical contact with them

[@fandomcringebucket]

For real! Recently, I (F) got a sticker from a friend to put on my laptop, and I literally jumped up with joy! I wanted to hug her because this was really sweet, but I asked first. I'm neurodivergent, so I know some people just aren't comfortable with physical contact, and that's okay too. TL;DR: fucking ask before you hug someone that isn't a family member you cretins /hj

[@katyakaplan225]

I've watched this one 4 or 5 times since it first aired and every time she says the line about "they're not good with numbers" I crack the hell up. Anita Hill is a boss in every sense of the word.

[@Ludspaw]

we joke about suicide a lot more than we eat avocado

[@forzaacmilan36]

Travis Thott Preach!🙏

[@forzaacmilan36]

Travis Thott Words of wisdom right there

[@porcupinethecat5073]

You guys can afford avocado?

[@DERPYMonkey123]

We eat more avocado than we should be eating.

[@richardhambrook7626]

I believe this is true.

[@ThisHandleFeatureIsStupid]

John Oliver is one exceptional human being. His attention to detail is phenomenal. He pushes jokes as far as they go, and on sensitive topics, but also has the decency to pull back and address legitimate problems too. I guess he technically fits into the "late night host" category, but in my eyes he's much more than that.

[@XtinPrevails]

That is very true, John Oliver is phenomenal! What other white grown up man would speak out so decently and courageously for women's rights? I am very impressed!

[@jaclyneagle6210]

it's a style that makes heavy topics easier for people to watchm this is why he throws in a few jokes and one or two super bizarre and random statements that aren't necessarily funny but 100% distract the viewer to avoid a negative experience. he does it really well because it flows. usually you would notice this

[@luceret]

I use some of his videos in my college writing course, because he and his writing staff build their argument so methodically and with such solid support that it's unassailable.

[@MrBabalouser]

It was a seven mississip-

[@ieatgremlins]

Kasper Him and his writing team.

[@hoodiesticks]

"The ice caps are melting pretty fast, and the change here is glacially slow." I appreciate the irony there.

[@terrycoeur9875]

An interview with jokes that does not insult the person being interviewed. Now that's what I call a rarity!

[@johnsmiht7776]

Anita Hill is the most poised, elegant lady I have ever seen interviewed. I have the greatest respect for her.

[@myfriendscallmek2745]

She was impressive. It's hard to imagine keeping that elegance in face of such a spectacle

[@bryanekers3472]

I'd be happy to tell Orrin Hatch to go fuck himself on her behalf.

[@bryanekers3472]

@@austinwilliams3448 Oh, was Biden there? I'm willing to give him some slack for what he did 28 years ago because he seems to have made a significant effort to improve. Trump hasn't even learned from stupidities he did last week.

[@ZIEIaou]

@@austinwilliams3448 biden was probably the best behaved in the commitee, but he still comes out looking very bad. i guess he apologized, but he is still painfully unaware or unwilling to admit how hostile even he was (and allowed the other men to be especially) but hey at least his hair came back also i hope you have another reason because you voted for the guy openly bragging about sexually harrassing people and wanting to fuck his daughter, with whom he himself claims sex to be the thing they have "in common" and thats just some examples off the top of my head specifically fron last week tonight

[@killerkomedian1342]

Yes she’s a pretty cool lady I feel bad how badly they treated her back then

[@etcetera1995]

You know you're 'guilty' when someone says "Hey, please don't do that," and you continue.

[@damian.gamlath]

This is the clearest definition of harassment.

[@SamuelCollins]

It isn’t always like this because they don’t always feel comfortable saying that

[@MrMigeco]

Ah ok, so if I said ' hey please stop making incredibly vague and simplistic comments on youtube' and you continued then you're 'guilty'. Seems pretty straightforward.

[@AmbyJeans]

Michael C Wtf? Did you really think about what you were saying before typing it? That had to be the dumbest argument I have ever heard. This is real simple, but I guess I'll have to talk (type) slow so you get all of it. Leave👏🏼her👏🏼alone👏🏼if👏🏼she👏🏼says👏🏼no👏🏼

[@MrMigeco]

@@AmbyJeans That's much more clear and obvious.

[@aproxamillionwasps474]

I filed a complaint against a manager at an old job. The boss told me how hard it was for *him* to have to have the meeting with the guy about it, and they repeatedly scheduled me to close alone with him afterwards even though I had asked for them not to. I quit, and they were absolutely shocked and kept saying I wasn’t really going to leave. Couldn’t believe I was upset enough to go.

[@sempersodalis6093]

Anita Hill suffered abominable humiliation but she made history. A real hero. Great interview. We should hear from her more often.

[@7525916]

"An erection's temper tantrum" may be the most accurate description of Tucker Carlson since his mother called him "my son" that one time.

[@diegomagnussen917]

Nathan Levinton I’m surprised this doesn’t have more likes... this was sick burn on top of another sick burn.

[@PseudoCompetent]

"I'm scared to be around women." Good, because they're probably scared to be around you.

[@einfisch3891]

@@abdulrahmanalenezi6068 yeah, let's give the harassers some credit for being scared to sexually harass people instead of addressing the fact that you shouldn't have to be scared that you might actually sexually harass someone. I mean, I go through my life every day and find it extraordinarily easy not to sexually harass someone. Its not really a thing to be afraid of unless you are going to do it, and if you are, that is an entirely different problem that we should be addressing, not defending.

[@Kiterious]

@@abdulrahmanalenezi6068 this is one of the worst comments on the internet but especially the part about people having ptsd about losing their jobs, I mean jfc dude do you even know what ptsd is??

[@Pundae]

@@einfisch3891 the problem isn't that he was afraid to commit serial harassment, the problem was that he was worried his actions would be taken as harassment. For example, I think it is pretty normal to compliment people, man or woman, and exchange friendly touches like pats on the shoulder. I'm more reserved in this, but I know people who do this often, and not as a way to attack women. However, someone who is uncomfortable with it might come forward with a case or complain to hr instead of just simply telling him. I'm not trying to insist that it's a common problem or a larger one than harassment itself, but from that frame of reference it makes a little bit more sense for him to be wary. The logic is if you just stay away from them entirely then you won't have a problem (which was why that other guy wouldnt hire that woman), and that's the opposite direction we want to go. Both should feel comfortable around each other. Putting each other into separate groups to avoid misconduct is a step backwards

[@astrowolvez]

@Lzb Lmvm ugh, women afraid of being sexually assaulted, ugh such feminists.

[@porcupinethecat5073]

Alright... So, I have autism. One of the things about autism is that you miss social cues. Like, when I'm talking, I don't notice others hints that it's time for me to stop. When I'm listening, I don't notice the hints that it's time for me to respond. These are things that others tell me are obvious. They're not obvious *to me*. I am *terrified* that something... *anything* I say/do will be misinterpreted *in general*. It's already happened so many times before. I've said things that are normally considered inappropriate (mostly jokes about death, I understand *now* that they're innapropriate) without knowing that they were. These are things that I just don't get (but I'm getting better). I'm terrified that something I say/do will be misinterpreted as sexual harassment. I'm scared because, as a person, I *hate* when others are uncomfortable. To accidentally make someone uncomfortable is a horrendous thought to me. And, worse, to accidentally make someone uncomfortable *and* be accused of doing it on purpose? To have no one believe that it was an accident? That is *literally* what I have nightmares about (usually other misunderstandings, but it still applies). I'm not scarred of hiring someone I'm attracted to. I'm mature enough to treat them the same as anyone else. I'm scared of missing a social cue. I'm scared of miss reading the atmosphere. And I'm scared of being accused of doing it on purpose.

[@MsScarletwings]

If you’re a straight man so terribly confused about what is crossing the line and what isn’t, simply picture a gay man doing the same to you and what YOUR feelings would be

[@mnschoen]

Yes. Imagine the fearsome homosexuals treating you how you treat women. WTF is this comment, a flashback to 1970?

[@MooseEatsBears]

​@@mnschoena more charitable take on OP's comment would be "Imagine receiving unwanted sexual attention from someone you have no sexual interest in." Hopefully it was just poorly worded, and not homophobic. Never attribute to malice what can be attributed to ignorance.

[@tinfoilslacks3750]

Isn't it funny that simply inverting the scenario doesn't work? "How would you feel if a woman made unsolicited sexual advances on you?" is seen as a near-universally positive experience by men that simply reversing the scenario of them harassing women doesn't work as an empathy exercise. Shit is wild.

[@taraferguson1157]

The poise and insight of Anita Hill is incredible! What a delight it would be to be taught by her. Luckily we have this interview 😊

[@nikitapardis2739]

i have a feeling the guys who are "afraid to even be around women at all" also believe "just follow the law and you wont have any problems with the police!"

[@Rj-pw7zs]

Well, no. The reason they're afraid is because a false accusation could get them fired or land them in legal trouble. I'm not saying most accusations are false, I imagine the vast majority are true. But it's still something a man has to be aware of.

[@valenciodiaz2644]

Imagine being falsely accused of sexual harassment by a woman just because you didn't caved into her demands.

[@eileene.5870]

RJ3054, given the massive number of accusations it took to finally be believed enough to result in consequences for all the men featured in this episode. One accusation results in zilch for almost every single report of harassment. Hell, only about 20% of rapes even result in a serious investigation and even fewer result in charges or a conviction! The odds are minuscule that anyone would be falsely accused of harassment, and the odds are astronomically NOT in favor of the accuser to see any form of punishment of the accused. If you're afraid to be around women for fear of being accused, it's time to look at yourself in the mirror and ask what it is in your own behavior and actions that you're so sure you'll be accused. Then simply stop those behaviors, and you'll be fine! If you wouldn't say it to your mom/sister/dad/son, don't say it to any woman you're working with. If you WOULD say those things to your family member, well, you have bigger problems that need a therapist to sort out.

[@Rj-pw7zs]

@@eileene.5870 You don't get it. No matter how small the chance of a false accusation it's still a concern that any man has to bear in mind. They can have done nothing wrong in the slightest and still have their life ruined. The stats on rapes and sexual assualts actually being investigated are generally appalling. But they don't change the concern men have of being falsely accused. Lastly I never said I was concerned. I simply tried to explain to the OP why it's a concern.

[@Rj-pw7zs]

@@chloee_p I must have missed the part where I said that being concerned for ones safety wasn't okay. If a women doesn't want to be alone with a man for fear for her safety that's fine. It's her choice. Just as it's a man's choice not to risk his life being ruined by a false accusation.

[@nnekaokonkwo8271]

Anita Hill is an amazing, intelligent, and resilient woman. She carries herself with such dignity.

[@abduldon6976]

Bangi vipi

[@laurenmatal353]

@SINGLE Prawn I want to be clear you're suggesting to not believe women?

[@Sammo212]

@SINGLE Prawn Why is it people like you only care about "believing" and "listening" to people who are convenient for your politics?

[@Sammo212]

@Herb Tenderson Funny, because I didn't herbie

[@klownmob8894]

Yo momma

[@askrhonnie6356]

Anita Hill demonstrates so much grace and poise. Such an admirable human being.

[@SharonP64]

Anita Hill is a smart, well spoken, smart and strong woman. She is very impressive 👏🏻💪🏻

[@skinnie2838]

Anita Hill admitted to lying under oath at least 5 times and the morons in this comment section are acting like shes credible. Unreal. She lied, you morons. She lied about Clarence. The democrats tried the same thing on Brett Kavanaugh decades later. More lies. No evidence ever shown. Just witnesses with stories that were proven false with relative ease. This right here is exactly why we should NEVER 'believe all women' simply because they say a thing happened. They lie.

[@DrakoWulf]

I've been sexually harassed three times in my lifetime, as a man. I've been raped twice by another man, and groped once by a woman. Yet I get people accusing me of making up tall tales just for attention. I've been medically diagnosed with PTSD, and a big part of it is from being raped, which I was nine years old at the time. When I was groped by a woman, I was thirteen at the time, and I got in trouble because I slapped her in response. I don't care if I get attention or not, I just don't want to be sexually abused ever again, and I don't want others to ever have to go through what I have.

[@shannon1958]

We need more people to be compassionate and understanding towards the victims of sexual assault regardless of gender. Best of wishes to you.

[@rjfaber1991]

I'm sorry to hear that Drako, and equally sorry that John (whose segments I usually enjoy very much) just ended up continuing the narrative that sexual misconduct is something that happens exclusively by men against women. The seeming inability of our Western society to look at the problem in its entirety but rather just focusing on women harassed by men has annoyed me no-end for some time now; I can only imagine how it must be for someone who's actually been a non-female victim on three occassions. The world needs to hear stories like yours, and I'm happy that you've got the strength to tell them. Stay strong!

[@MultiQuanzaAVQ]

Stay strong friend

[@risharehraje793]

Does not matter. You are a man. You obviously can't be a victim, they say.

[@Guidingleech]

Rishare hraje The sad truth of it.

[@DepressinglyOptimistic]

"I'm so scared to hug a woman." Why you randomly hugging women thinking this would be ok? If you make a person uncomfortable, you need to fix yourself. The fault does not fall on them being too sensitive.

[@halifaxverbeck7098]

yes! i wish more people would understand that if people didn’t react so defensively to the claim that they made someone uncomfortable and instead blame the person for being uncomfortable that a lot of these things wouldn’t have to be public. if you learned that you made someone uncomfortable, maybe make an effort to change your behaviour. it’s very simple. no wonder people feel the need to come out publicly about sexual harassment if there is no change when it is handled privately.

[@DepressinglyOptimistic]

@@halifaxverbeck7098 Exactly! I remember as a kid, I would get really nervous around people who gave off creeper vibes, but my parents always told me I was rude for being quiet and shy to them. So this always gave me the impression that if someone makes you uncomfortable, don't let them know. As an adult, I say no to all that b.s. It was that type of "ignore it and pretend it's not there" mentality that led to my being raped. I was uncomfortable, but because of the twisted crap my parents hammered in my head I didnt get up and leave, while my sister was in the bedroom with her boyfriend. So, after that day I don't care how rude I am, I call out bad behavior. It is a person's actions that make someone respond, so if someone is not responding as expected evaluate your actions. As simple as that.

[@Dorfanable]

I think the point is that if you hug someone you open themselves up for a lawsuit. There are psychopaths in both genders who try and use people for their own ends and abuse their power. I get your point though.

[@danielpaivaaquino4864]

@@XTYWIZZ good point

[@DepressinglyOptimistic]

@@XTYWIZZ but the point is you cannot just randomly hig a person like he is taking about. Problem give off vibes and signals telling others when it is ok or not, and if h you dont someone well enough to tell you shouldn't be hugging them.

[@paweborkowski6959]

Kudos to Ms Hill for keeping a straight face no matter what John said.

[@CarobCoolyn1]

I was sexually harrased in my 20s in my job and I got fired for reporting it! Nowadays I am a teacher and we have to do these trainings every year about sexual harassment, the legal jargon and how to deal with it. This is very effective and a positive change.

[@RENEEVEE133]

How does one reach that level of calm sophistication? Anita Hill is glorious.

[@ariaalexandria3324]

Right?! Just watch her being grilled. She stayed cool and level-headed even when being attacked. She is so incredibly strong. I'd have crumbled under that interrogation, and I don't think I could have been calm in an interview even after so many years. She's #innerstrengthgoals in my opinion.

[@DaniOnDemand]

Meninism_101 I'm sorry your family failed you in the empathy department, but do not underestimate the damage that sexual harassment can leave on someone. Especially if it involved physical harm/rape and you have never experienced such.

[@KayleeCee]

I get what those women were saying about not wanting to be 'that girl'. I recently started a new job in the IT department at a facility that makes food packaging. About a month ago I was working on one of the terminals at one of the printing presses. There is a limited amount of space in that area, so people needing to get through would have to squeeze behind me. This wasn't a problem until one guy began sniffing my hair every single time he walked by. At first I thought he had a cold or something, but it happened about 7 times. He was at just the right height where his nose was just above my hair and every time he was directly behind me he would sniff deeply then make a weird, creepy satisfied noise. There were other people working in the area and it became clear that they were starting to notice something weird was going on, but didn't really know what to do or say. After all, he wasn't touching me or making sexual comments. But it was creepy and it was making me uncomfortable. But I didn't want to be 'that girl', especially over something so seemingly minor. The next time he came by he actually paused behind me for a second, so I pivoted and threw my shoulder into him. Hard. Then I was like "Oops, I'm sorry." but gave him a look that said no, not really sorry. He kind of yelped and one of the other guys working in the area said "Come on, man. You had that coming." That guy wasn't even supposed to be in that area, it's not even his department. The good news is that he now stays far, far away from me.

[@priya30081]

Great move. Next time if he repeats or someone else does, try to jab a sharp pencil/pen or a pin 😂

[@jaymccolm9603]

Maybe you stink and he was making fun of you? Just kidding, you're a victim, sue for 50 million.

[@THEwunderbread]

This is why my daughter will know how to throw a good throat punch/nut stomp combo.

[@Hakkyou13]

Right on. I hate hearing how people have to play pseudo-polite to get creeps to back off, but at least it worked. Hope the next target managed as well.

[@JoshLtv]

This story has such a good ending. Huge respect for you for standing up for yourself.

[@helloperson6431]

When i was in high school, I made comments and did actions that made my female classmates uncomfortable. Sexually charged jokes were something i did quite often. I now look back on my behaviour in shame and disgust. I wish i can reach out to my past classmates to apologise and atone for my actions. This kind of behaviour is very much wrong and while it is good that i don't do such actions anymore, the impact they have is still there. Part of me wants to play it off to just being a teen, yet it is much more than that. I knew better and should have not done this to begin with. No matter what, this behaviour shouldn't be tolerated. Whether in work, or at school, or even in public. We can make change.

[@semievilsquirrel]

I love how honest and open John is during the interview.

[@Jubeslmao]

“She was more qualified but he hired someone else bc she’s too pretty” is a fun new way to explain away workplace discrimination

[@pokoirlyase5931]

I usually refuse to work woth women in context where I may stay alone with them or simply need to be close to them. The reason is that I would not like some woman to fuck up my career by falsely accusing me. I don't care what other people think, my reputation comes first

[@anamantelo7832]

@@pokoirlyase5931 wow... you're kind of a shitty co-worker, huh?

[@20mike20ify]

@@anamantelo7832 no he is not. He just wants to keep his job....

[@anamantelo7832]

@@20mike20ify Women aren't out to get him. And if you think they are out to get you, maybe you should reevaluate yourself.

[@Cathyblj]

Pokoirl YaSe As Anita Hill said, only harassers have any reason to worry about accusations.

[@marlongaines9319]

I’ve dated a lot of women in my lifetime . Never been accused of harassment. I’m talking military, the trucking industry, medical industry, I’ve even worked at a call center. Never had an issue. I really don’t understand how dudes can’t just tell if a woman is interested or not. If she doesn’t give you her number, she’s not into you. If she gives you her number and doesn’t answer the phone or text back, she’s not into you. If she says “No I don’t want to go get coffee”.... you guessed it fella. Your scent of a panther isn’t working.

[@mortsnerd5100]

Frankie Vegas, a good rule of thumb is to only ask once. If she's just playing hard to get, that's her problem.

[@Figgy20000]

There was a guy at my work who literally hit on everyone. Eventually you nail the desperate one and they say yes even if 30 others say no. Part of the issue is these tactics work as often as they don't. It's not like these creepy guys running around are all virgins. People just don't call them on their shit as often as they need to.

[@David-sq2en]

I was working in a big corporation, there was a management position open, I apply for it, a female coworker apply for it too... she decided to make allegations on me, all of the sudden I was not longer eligible for the position. So... education and years of experience meant nothing anymore... I never asked for her number, I never called her, I never invited her to coffee, I never had any romantic interest on her... but thanks for you advice in how not to get accused of harassment... talk to me again the day you have something that is worth something and a woman wants it... I am now working on trying to put together my own business... guess what mistakes I am not planing to expose myself to? You and John Oliver can be as dismissive as you please, but still... if it is my company I will hire only people I feel safe to have around.

[@ryanshirk4029]

Steven Pinker gave a good explanation of this differentiating between direct and indirect communication. He says men prefer to communicate directly clearly stating what they want "Would you like to go to a movie this weekend?" women prefer indirect communication with an emphasis on saving face "I can't this weekend, I have a friend's birthday party to go to." this leads to men thinking there is still a chance. Some men might realize that she is making up an excuse because she's not interested but a large number of males just think she is busy that weekend and try again next weekend.

[@ryanshirk4029]

@@Figgy20000 On the flip side there are plenty of women who like the assertive males and they even write a bunch of books and make movies about it. I have been told many times that I am too considerate and that I should just take what I want, by women. Remember they own the Harlequin Romance industry and I think you'd be hard-pressed to find one novel in that category that doesn't showcase sexually assertive male behaviour. It seems to be what women want regardless of how much they complain about it.

[@Madfattdeeb]

How wonderful it must have been to meet and talk with Anita Hill. She is such a strong, kind, intelligent, and carismatic person. I am upset I missed my chance to her speak up in Boston. She is a good example of who we should try to be. All my love to her and her family.

[@Beatlesfanish]

Question: Should men be afraid to be alone with women? Answer: Not if they are not harassers. Douchebags everywhere: confused Pikachu face

[@thomastakesatollforthedark2231]

And cops can search your home because you've got nothing to hide

[@jacobprice2579]

Watching all these Fox News guys and politicians being like “where’s the line? Where’s the line?!” Oh they so know they’ve crossed it at some point.

[@Jay-om8gr]

Jacob Price yeah but John didn’t show that Democrats like joe Biden were also grilling hill. Because John is a biased leftist

[@joern122]

if the question becomes: "Did that cross the line?" you can be damn sure it was crossing the line! If that question has to be asked you went so far that you realized the other person felt uncomfortable which means their discomfort was showing so obviously you noticed.

[@user-xv6ig8tu9b]

@@Jay-om8gr Duh. That's obvious, everyone has a bias. I'm sure you don't complain watching biased conservatives.

[@Jay-om8gr]

Μουσική Είναι Ζωή you shouldn’t speak in such definitive terms when you don’t know what tf you’re talking about kid. I’m not a rep. I’m an independent disgusted with the reps AND y’all dems.

[@FirstnameLastname-bn4gv]

Shad Weird, I don’t see them saying they’re democrats anywhere. Maybe you’re just a hypocrite making the same assumptions you just criticized them for?

[@shirleywhitt8740]

Having Kavanaugh and Thomas on the Supreme Court does not speak a great deal of optimism for improvement in this area.

[@toni9890]

@@sguraya7223 lol keep defending sexual assault era Ked

[@toni9890]

@@sguraya7223 lol ok ked

[@skinniemcfats5292]

There is no evidence against Clarence Thomas just like there was no evidence when the democrats tried the same thing 25 years later against Brett Kavanaugh. Everyone knows just the accusation is enough to ruin someone. Fortunately some are capable of withstanding that garbage. You are a joke and so is the democratic party.

[@Aethelia]

@@sguraya7223 Odd, I didn't even know someone could deny it. There's an argument about whether it matters or not, but nobody seriously denies that they did it.

[@sguraya7223]

@@Aethelia Really? I've not come across any evidence that they did it, do you have any?

[@fionahaines882]

Omg Anita is incredible! Funny, whip smart and so deeply knowledgeable about this very important subject. Great great interview 👏🏻👌🏻✌🏻

[@user-se5cc8ez2n]

I'm currently in a job where I came forward about sexual harassment. Nothing happened to them. I'm quitting my job.

[@nicoleb695]

It's easy: if you wouldn't say it in front of your mother, don't say it. If you want to give a hug, ask. If you're attracted, ask them out (if not married or with someone). Take "no" as an answer and leave it at that. Show respect. That's it. Those are the rules, it's easy. Feel free to add on.

[@some-one-else]

Bacons Strip You also apparently have a wife and are a superhuman with some mad arm wrestling skills. You're sounding more and more like a 19 year old basement dweller with every comment.

[@ncorp2668]

But if the man is in a position of power over the woman, he shouldn't be asking her out at all...that's textbook workplace harassment.

[@JosieJOK]

I. Wynn Wynn Unfortunately, neither of those is common enough.

[@Pundae]

@@ncorp2668 that policy is super strict in the military. Fraternization can even include living with one of your friends that's in the same unit. My favorite line from our information packet for drill was "this is a workplace, not a dating platform". It's not just about men having power over women, especially since I'm outranked by a lot of them

[@Pundae]

@George xeno there's a line between being able to say whatever you want and being professional. Tact is a good skill to have and a lot of workplaces are able to fire you at their discretion, including if you have an unprofessional attitude or a tendency to not take work seriously, so there doesn't even need to be a law anyways. Just leave it to the business to decide it's environment

[@middle_management7582]

I've been harassed at work before. I was given a sexually explicit letter by a married woman twice my age, while in the store I worked at, on camera (I had access to those cameras thanks to my position, so I knew it was recorded). I handed the letter to my store manager, cooperated with an internal investigation, and absolutely nothing happened to her. Not even a verbal warning. Harassment is not taken seriously in the workplace, and it's truly wrong.

[@ardonis99]

man, i found this super beta. you get a letter and instead of going to her and talking about it like adults you go and tell on her. i just dont get it. why? you tell her "no GTFO you old whore" and that should be the end of it. and now you angry that mommy didnt do anything about it. FFS

[@toddharry7238]

Steven, I'm sorry that the first response to your comment was in such poor taste. There is a protocol for what happened to you and you followed it. It truly sucks that nothing happened from there, it kinda shows that your company doesn't care about its employees and that's too bad. I hope you've found a better place to work. Also... know that someone who calls another human being a "beta" has some things to work out on their end.

[@omgsam7185]

AND YOUR COMMENT PROVES THAT IT CAN ALSO HAPPEN TO MEN! THANK YOU

[@middle_management7582]

I'm not concerned about ardonis99's comments. When you've never had a professional job, you don't understand the environment or understand how to handle situations.

[@fred_fred_fred]

Osama Anwar You seem nice.

[@aslilyum]

The guy with the "...Huh?" is my new favourite. A true vibe

[@TulikaTagoreTEE]

That’s why I love John Oliver, when he was asked what he would do, he gave a genuine answer. No, it wasn’t a satisfactory answer, but he said the truth. Didn’t make up a over the top answer or how he would have saved the day because that would have been a lie and most would have done just that.

[@lurblur11]

I agree and, I think after interviewing Anita Hill, he learned a lesson that will stick with him. He's a good person.

[@ApoloniaJones1976]

I was so impressed by his interviewing skills and his honesty.

[@emma0348]

laura duran g

[@RainAngel111]

Yeah, he got really real for a second there and I really respect him for that.

[@jomiannojn4426]

Good point. You remind me of Jimmy Kimmel as an example. He would (and does) act like he's all progressive and shamed the scandalized during the #metoo movement. But if you google his old shows, the whole point was him treating women in a demeaning and sexualized manner! Taking them lingerie shopping and to bikini trampoline contests etc. At least John Oliver (and others too, perhaps Matt Damon and Liam Neeson) are honest and consistent, even if they're not perfect or blameless.

[@Erinski]

I grew up in a Conservative household, and it is shameful the way I was taught to look at Anita Hill, as not only a false accuser, but a race traitor, trying to take down a successful black man, because he was a conservative. And my parents *still* think this way. I tried to talk to them about this segment to take a break of trying to tell them why they should wear a mask, and when I mentioned her name, they both made this face like they just swallowed a bug.

[@Sanguiluna]

I can’t help but wonder how many of those conservatives who back then branded Anita Hill a race traitor for speaking out against ONE black man also unironically praise Candace fucking Owens for regularly attacking the Black Lives Matter movement.

[@Tyrannosaurine]

@@Sanguiluna I never really thought about this, but you’re dead spot on.

[@KodasGarden]

Ugh, I'm really sorry that's what you're having to deal with. Have things gotten better in the past two years?

[@number1authority]

I was 7 years old and (similar household) my dad had invited a fellow visual artist to the house for a night of dinner and sketching and hanging out, and my dad, my mom, my little sister and his recently-made acquaintance all sat in the family room while the hearings played on CNN in the background. Our guest, upon watching Thomas speak, frankly expressed a droll one-liner opinion of him, and I’ll never forget how much of a party-ending, record scratch moment it was. I think my dad turned a new shade of yellow-green and everything got frighteningly quiet. Believe it or not, our rationally minded new friend was not invited back.

[@skinnie2838]

Anita Hill admitted to lying under oath at least 5 times and the morons in this comment section are acting like shes credible. Unreal. She lied, you morons. She lied about Clarence. The democrats tried the same thing on Brett Kavanaugh decades later. More lies. No evidence ever shown. Just witnesses with stories that were proven false with relative ease. This right here is exactly why we should NEVER 'believe all women' simply because they say a thing happened. They lie.

[@fakemoth1068]

this whole thing brainwashed me when i was a scared, angsty teen. turns out women arnt a hive mind set out to destroy you. thank god i unlearned this shit before it was to late

[@mukeshgeorge8298]

Thank you Oliver for talking about it... I'm also ashamed of being part of such behaviour in group conversations. But when I heard the experience of one of my friends, it kind of hit me badly and I am all the more convinced that I also need to be that voice to address this issue irrespective of a particular gender

[@kalathi1898]

John does more tactful and insightful interviews than 90% of "serious" journalists. His work on this show is just great, and transcends regular comedy.

[@OrigamiMarie]

I've been binge watching this show over the past week, and I'm really impressed that he's gotten interviews with Ed Snowden, Anita Hill, and Monica Lewinsky. And in every interview, he proves exactly why he gets these amazing interviews. He reads the room, he draws people out in a way that's respectful, sweetly self-deprecating, and designed in a way that elicits engaging responses from his interviewees. I think it really helps that he doesn't drag people out in front a live audience, and instead sets up a quiet neutral space.

[@laurabrown941]

In Modern Living Rooms Everyone Using "SoundProof Curtains" That Stops Outside Noise by 80% (25 Db) Tested. Check Here: livesoundproof.com/best-soundproof-curtains/

[@tyronehendricks509]

100%

[@staceyboomboom8031]

He is GENUINE and SINCERE. That's why he's so good at his job.

[@skinniemcfats5292]

There is no evidence against Clarence Thomas just like there was no evidence when the democrats tried the same thing 25 years later against Brett Kavanaugh. Everyone knows just the accusation is enough to ruin someone. Fortunately some are capable of withstanding that garbage. You are a joke and so is the democratic party.

[@morganconover5125]

Anita Hill is the epitome of class to this day

[@yudithcaron8053]

And John Oliver was nicely dressed and his look was very natural. But he would be prettier if he smiled more.

[@caitlinroseblaney226]

And she’s a professor now, so she’s literally teaching classes. She’s such a hero.

[@davidsouza7994]

She so is. Props.

[@mesomelas1467]

She's a liar and the american people know she lied. There's actual proof showing she lied.

[@bobrolander4344]

The list of all episodes of Last Week Tonight is essentially a sad long list of American issues that neither Republican politician, nor a single ESTABLISHMENT Democrat will EVER even try to touch. *Neither Kamala Harris, nor Joe Biden, nor Pete Butigeg, nor Beto O'Rourke WILL EVER DO JACK SHIT about ANY of these hundreds of pressing issues.* In the end making a buck will be more important than a planet to survive on, more important than justice, more important THAN LIFE ITSELF.

[@opheliaismyname9180]

A wonderful, if slightly wrongheaded, example of the "do you want me to say anything?" advice, I think, is James Marsters taking Naoko Mori aside after watching her and John Barrowman bantering and him taking it a bit far, and asking her if she was ok and if she wanted the number of someone who did self defence. He was painted as the problem, because her and John have been friends for years and it was just a joke (and it says more about the culture on a set not far previous than it does about their friendship), but the fact that he immediately went "I've gotta check on her" is admirable

[@violetlove3580]

"Slightly ashamed is a good start" lololol this lady is really funny. Usually these interviews he does are with people that are pretty serious but actually she's hilarious 😂 good shit, as always 💜

[@thefangirlgeek0193]

“What are the rules?” respect people?????

[@MusicWithoutReservation]

TheFangirlGeek01 Yes! I literally said, “Maybe don’t harass people?” when I heard that line!

[@kclivi5]

“Don’t say hello to a woman or ask her out because now that’s considered harassment?????”

[@kclivi5]

Sharon Jensen That kind of makes sense actually! Thanks!

[@losharclan7914]

no, "grab them by the pussy"

[@sombrerohero8793]

Its like always sunny

[@luceret]

The bit about the 7 1/2 second hug is so on point. I have yet to hear "where is the line?" from a man with good intentions; it's always from some creep bemoaning that he can't creep as much as he used to. The men with good intentions are asking, "What can I do to help stamp out the culture that allows this?"

[@voodooros]

There's nothing wrong with wanting to have sex with women. That's not bad intentions, that's good intentions.

[@goul7712]

If you're trying to have sex with a women and dont know if you have consent, you're doing it wrong.

[@Toneill029]

You are right I spent the past ten minutes maybe to justify me asking for where the line is and finding no way to put it into words because I always came to the conclusion that I know already not to do a lot of shitty things towards women like comment about them sexually or touch them without their consent like a hug or even a handshake. So yeah all I can say is I want to help solve this issue because I know sexual harassment is wrong and I believe in doing the right thing first and foremost.

[@momo1461]

@@goul7712 Yeah, if it's not in writing, you're a convicted sex-offender. That's basic universal knowledge. Any guy who asks questions is also a registered molester. #Feminism

[@momo1461]

@@Toneill029 It's illegal to not know where the line is. That definitely means you assaulted the line and all women everywhere. You need to be locked up for your violent crimes.

[@marleymae6746]

As an ex Mormon. I was taught that if A man gets turned on by a females clothes, she is responsible for his sin. And if you lost your virginity before marriage the girls were compared to a piece of chewed spit out gum, but not the boy.

[@appltron1827]

This ideology is literally the predominant mindset of my country.

[@amymorris2341]

Going back and watching this now and we haven't made much progress on the problem. But Anita Hill is so amazing, fantastic way to end with her words of wisdom!

[@SadisticSenpai61]

I realize I'm only 34, so my workplace experiences probably aren't as much as the guy that asked if he was allowed to hug his female coworkers (he's probably what, 50?). But there has only been one occasion when I've had a boss come anywhere near close to hugging me - when my mother texted me while I was at work to inform me that my great grandmother died (mom of the year, I know). Even then, it was a side hug of the kind that would put the most uptight purity culture Christians to shame. There was absolutely nothing inappropriate about it at all and it was much needed comfort at the time. He also gave me plenty of time and space to pull away and prevent him from touching me altogether. Ofc, that was also the same boss that took my complaint of another coworker sexually harassing me seriously and immediately moved him to a different shift and warned him that if he heard one more complaint about the guy, he would be fired immediately. He was a good boss and I hope he's enjoying his retirement. In my experience, he was a rare gem in an otherwise entirely shitty world of retail managers.

[@caitieeeee]

Retail managers are the worst, I am glad he was professional.

[@yexiaogao7366]

Just simply happy for the fact that u were treated with respect and dignity and fairness. Lucky for you to have a nice boss. Hope every other working woman on earth can be treated that way when they get harassed in their work.

[@Nwright171]

retail and resturants i find are the worse places at actually addressing this issue, which is shity considering the employment rate for those industries. Almost everyone has had job in retail or some form of food and yet they aren't protected the way they should be. It was only when i moved to San Diego that i realized how bad my home state i moved from , South Carolina was a dealing with this issue in all industries not just service. California has some of the most amazing laws to protect their enerty level workforce

[@SadisticSenpai61]

@@richlaw5136 hahaha! Right. Wish guys would get that memo.

[@richlaw5136]

@@SadisticSenpai61 i dont think you have anything to worry about, sweety

[@ouijacorn]

The women laughing in the background of that Dr. Drew clip when the dude chokes out: "I'm so scared to even HUG a woman", are just *chef's kiss*.

[@markbisson6166]

and then drew's "..huh?' lolol

[@irCurts_Old_Gamer]

It has taken many years to understand that it isn't how things feel to me or affect me that is most important; what matters is my impact on others. I try to feel and understand that more, and I love content like this! I feel more empowered and empathetic. I very much appreciate the bit where John felt "slightly ashamed," there were many times over the years that I could have stepped up and didn't. I loved when Anita Hill said people need to feel empathetic. It is vital to open up and feel the pain you might feel in someone else's shoes, in this context Anita Hill's. I am not sure I can ever get it 100%, but I heard that you had a plan that was totally derailed, your family was impacted, I cannot imagine a part of your life that was unaffected.

[@jimbrunsman1011]

One of the better interviews we are ever likely to see. Funny, smart, empathetic, and wise. Anita Hill is such a composed, calm human being!

[@Kiterious]

"What are the rules?" Ask yourself "is this something Tucker Carlson would do?" If the answer is yes, then don't do it.

[@kmikl]

Wearing a bowtie... and being an utter power felcher. Yeah.

[@homewardboundphotos]

tucker carlson has never been accused of sexual harassment, he is married and has kids. if you're worries about people who sexually violate woman, maybe prioritize that guy with the purple hair who gave you the molly at the pride march and now is inviting you back to his apartment.

[@Kiterious]

@@homewardboundphotos ...what are you even talking about lmao

[@modothegreat108]

​@@homewardboundphotos Attacking the other side is never a valid strategy in an argument. You have undermined your own points with your attitude as well as the unsubstantiated anecdote. If you are trying to defend Tucker Carlson, you aren't doing the best job of it.

[@korickarmstrong3468]

@@modothegreat108 the other guy literally started off with attacking one side though. ATADEMO is simply carrying on the tactics and is actually giving a valid example of what to really look out for.

[@Ameliacats42]

John handled that interview so well. Being able to tastefully apply humor during an interview about such a serious topic is an amazing skill.

[@TehBurek]

Exactly! I thought about this every time he did such a serious and sensitive interview, and it's such a fine line, between staying true to your comedy format and being an insensitive jerk. And at least for my tastes, he never went to the wrong side of that, which I consider quite an achievement.

[@rgwak]

He's great at being self-deprecating in his humor, which puts others at ease, even when discussing a delicate subject. It's a very British thing.

[@ironmac10]

This is a crazy problem in the military. I was an aircraft mechanic. Mostly a male dominated field. Men would talk around woman like they were dudes. I could see that the women were uncomfortable but felt like they had to let it go in order to feel accepted. Men would hit on female mechanics like a drunk sailor on shore leave. If they said anything everyone would ostracized them.

[@vanshikathakur]

John Oliver is the best! 👑

[@Lumeniaellina]

That was SUCH a well done interview. It felt like John really did offer himself up for analysis and showed his own faults and genuinely asked for ways he as a man could also be better. So humble and genuinely respectful. And Anita is just filled with grace, she’s clearly past that time and can speak about it with patience and transparency. Bravo!

[@cobbler9113]

It also showed that men and women are also wired differently which will no doubt effect the debate. When Anita asked John what he would do if he saw someone harassing a female colleague in the workplace, his instinct would be to confront the abuser while Anita said he should probably comfort and support the victim. Neither is necessarily wrong, I think that’s just how men and women respond to things differently. Only problem with the former is that if the perpetrator is higher up the pecking order than you, it’s not exactly easy to tell them they’re out of line without jeopardising your own reputation and prospects. If you’re the same level, you can usually be a lot more honest.

[@fairy5668]

@@cobbler9113 Sometimes you have to prioritise justice over getting a promotion. I don't think that's an example of men and women being wired differently - I'm a woman who has been sexually assaulted and I would do both in that scenario (although I would probably say something more harsh than "that was kinda creepy my guy").

[@kristin1533]

She testified bravely and honestly in the '90s, too. I know. I watched it on TV at the time.

[@myfriendscallmek2745]

@@cobbler9113 she said he should be ashamed he didn't confront the harasser, she added that treating the harassed woman as a fellow human being was also ok lolol

[@myfriendscallmek2745]

True but i feel it should also be assumed the importance to support men who stand up against disrespect because let's face it, emancipation is twofold and frankly he could lose his job as easily. Until we work on this issues together we won't move forward, i think

[@haselni]

How could she possibly keep a straight face at "I'm a man in the broadest possible sense of the word."?

[@ANunes06]

College professor. A+1 levels of composure are necessary.

[@user-rc4gf3bg8f]

Human robot?

[@dontknowsht8771]

on the other hand when she says "they are not good with numbers" Olivers laugh is so cute

[@hobog]

Because that's how deadpan delivery can be received

[@raven3moon]

Because she was trained as a litigator. She has to have a really good poker face.

[@_martin_s]

That was awesome Thank you Professor Hill and thank you John for helping shine a light on this. I knew back then that Thomas should have never been confirmed and it's disgraceful that he still sits on SCOTUS and now Cavanaugh another abuser is on there too. There is so much work to be done.

[@sneaks9150]

Love Anita for her bravery and her continuing dedication to making women feel safe at work and have a voice to speak out. Her career post-trial is worth noting wish it was fleshed out during the interview. After trial she never stopped being an activist.

[@elonmush4793]

Ok fellow non-harassing men, you heard it: When we notice something wrong going on we need to step up. That's our part. One bad apple can not spoil the bunch.

[@Arosukir6]

Anonymous I'm so glad that's your takeaway from this video!! As opposed to the many, many other men (and some women) in this thread who feel the need to get defensive, or talk about their experiences with lying women, or bring up that men get harassed too (we know they do, and it's equally horrible, so obviously we need all harassment to end). Thank you so much! I would also say the same takeaway for non-harassing women. If we see a coworker of any kind being harassed, we have to speak up! Don't high five a lady because she touched a male coworker's butt. Tell her it was gross, and ask the man if he's okay. Don't shame female coworkers, or *ever* say "at least you're hot enough to get that kind of attention." Speak up!

[@josephwilliams1251]

This was just a wonderfully wholesome interaction.

[@Moeller750]

Well said!

[@TwilightIsLIfe4493]

Thank you for saying this.

[@Scorch428]

Snitches get stitches....take your risks, if you want.

[@robinmaynard1640]

How has Anita Hill stayed so kind? Amazing person.

[@skinniemcfats5292]

There is no evidence against Clarence Thomas just like there was no evidence when the democrats tried the same thing 25 years later against Brett Kavanaugh. Everyone knows just the accusation is enough to ruin someone. Fortunately some are capable of withstanding that garbage. You are a joke and so is the democratic party.

[@lovecraftscat5044]

Okay, Skinnie McFats. 🙄 Okay.

[@michaelmangan7963]

The exchange with Anita Hill was amazing!

[@Sakura-uo3qz]

Anita is such an icon! I want to be like her when I grow up shes so strong and smart and just awesome

[@manuginobilisbaldspot424]

I was 12 during the Anita Hill testimony and in the 8th grade. I’m not going to pretend I was enthralled by the hearings. I was too busy trying to get the attention of Jaimee Detar and a copy of Tecmo Super Bowl for my Nintendo Entertainment System. But I DO remember my late grandfather, a pretty conservative black man saying “that woman is telling the truth”. He actually admired Clarence Thomas not so much for his career but the manner in which he got there. And that hearing was a line in the sand for him. All these years later, the slander with which Anita endured, even that bullshit from Ginnie Thomas’ unseasoned ass makes me sick to my stomach. Yet to her enduring credit, she conducted herself with dignity and class, things black women are often accused of lacking. And time has revealed not only her character, but the lack of character Clarence Thomas possesses.

[@oxoK9999oxo]

Manu Ginobilis Bald Spot ahhhh Tecmo Super Bowl....good times. Agree with the rest of this comment too.

[@ollierkul]

Wow. And impressively well thought out and written comment.

[@AscendantStoic]

And what if she was lying!?

[@usucktoo]

TheHunterWolf Let me guess, you're one of those men who are "afraid."

[@debbiegross3136]

TheHunterWolf Says the moron who has ZERO clue what’s going on.

[@bernhardlabus8511]

*eats Avocado toast angrily*

[@bilalbaig8586]

*sexually assaults avocado toast angrily*

[@user-ur8hl8lr7q]

Bilal Baig #metoast

[@emilyb3176]

@@user-ur8hl8lr7q I laughed way too hard at that...

[@sdtn2220]

What a hero! Anita makes me want to be a stronger person.

[@abigailbp9294]

Thank you John Oliver for doing this piece! And it was a very moving interview.

[@Styxintheriver]

“What are the rules?” Don’t touch us if we don’t want to want to be touched, don’t openly check us out, and don’t say creepy shit?? Simple??? Why is this so complex???? It’s not?????

[@liquidKi]

So... mind reading. Cool.

[@Styxintheriver]

liquidKi wut

[@malasangre583]

Dont check ya out? What the f? I should go blind or shut my eyes and assume your all awsome cause? Pffttt

[@talb.1805]

@@malasangre583 lmfao openly checking someone out as in staring at a coworker and salivating over them despite them being uncomfortable, and you know that dude you just refuse to acknowledge the fact that some behaviours are unethical

[@joelman1989]

John Oliver placed himself in a very vulnerable position in the Anita Hill interview towards the end of the video. I think it just shows his respect for the issue and commitment to change you know it's easy to point fingers but to readily admit to having been in some way part of the problem not just to someone who's publicly been a victim of the problem but to the entire world I think that was quite brave. Not as brave as what countless women like Anita Hill have had to do but brave nonetheless.

[@telhado55]

I agree. Brave of him, and very kind of her in the way she spoke. They show class.

[@b3narm5trong]

And the countdown to John Oliver being accused of workplace sexual harassment begins... now.

[@veganpotterthevegan]

ItalianoYMexicano Mostly ALL real cases of harassment and assault will have no evidence. That's the reality. And Chris may very likely be as guilty as any other asshole.

[@abdulmalik053]

You could easily feel from his voice that he understands he could have been a part of this problem... That is the reason I love this man. He understands the problem and he along with his team try to bring the change no matter how small and "glacial" it would be.

[@Keldroc]

The accusations against Hardwick have zero to do with workplace harassment. He was an abusive shithead to his girlfriend, which is a related but separate issue. Very strange to bring him up in this context.

[@J3scape]

I have a coworker that stares and gawks at me so much I feel incredibly uncomfortable. I work in a hot ass warehouse and when I told my boss about it, he told me to change how I dress. (I just wear normal jeans and tshirts.)