Ines Sainz: Sexual Harassment Handled Well

By now, most people have probably heard about the latest news in sports related sexual harassment. This time around, the media has zeroed in on Ines Sainz, a Mexican sports reporter, who was reportedly harassed by members of the Jets.

When I first saw this story reported on the Today Show, I was actually surprised at the way it was being handled. It seemed that the media may actually be coming to the aid of Sainz, recognizing that she did not “ask” to be sexually harassed just because she was named one of the sexiest sports reporters in the world and has “suggestive” photos on her website. I was also impressed that the guys in charge at the Jets were taking her claims seriously and even investigating her claims.

Most of all, though, I was impressed with Sainz. Speaking out against sexual harassment is a big deal, and something that’s not easy to do. It’s been suggested to me on a number of occasions that Sainz may have done this to launch her career and to gain attention. Realistically, though, Sainz did not initially pursue this crusade: another female reporter encouraged her to speak out, convincing her that the issue was worth pushing. Maybe this is the story being fed to us by some PR person, but at the same time, is it SO hard to believe that a female reporter was harassed in a men’s locker room and chose to speak out against it?

However, it is important to look at this issue realistically. Sainz was not touched inappropriately. She was not physically threatened in any way. Of course this situation could’ve been worse. But at the heart of this issue is the idea that objectifying a woman – especially based on what she’s wearing, or pictures she might have taken, as so many critics seem to point to – is not okay under any circumstances, which is still a message that doesn't seem to have thoroughly come across yet. In our society, we still look at these comments as "jokes" or "messing around" when in reality they're just not okay.

Plus, I’m so sick of hearing that what a woman wears must define everything that happens to her – professionally and personally. Ines has pictures on her website wearing tight dresses. Well, society seems to think, she must not take her job seriously, she must only be seeking attention. She must also deserve to be sexually harassed. But should Sainz have to look like a nun at all times just to have her career – and personal life – taken seriously?

I commend Sainz for speaking out, and for showing the world that sexual harassment is still wrong, whether a woman is touched or not, and that women should be considered for more than what they wear.