workplace violence, construction industry, women in construction, harassment prevention, gender equality, safety in the workplace, NAWIC, Be That One Guy campaign, empowerment, solidarity.
In a powerful episode of the Management Under Construction podcast, host Dee Davis confronts the harsh reality of violence against women in the construction industry. With a heavy heart, she reflects on the tragic loss of tradeswomen like Outi Hicks and Amber Czech, urging both men and women to stand together to create a safer workplace for all.
**Understanding the Issue**
Dee begins by highlighting a staggering statistic: nearly 90% of women who are murdered at work are killed by men they know. This alarming fact underscores the need for awareness and action within the industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of homicide at work for women is nearly three times that of their male counterparts. This is not just a statistic; it is a clarion call for change.
**The Role of Men in Change**
Dee addresses her male colleagues with a heartfelt appeal: “Brothers in the industry, I do think of you as my brothers.” She emphasizes that while many men would never physically harm a woman, they must recognize that violence often begins with seemingly harmless behaviors such as inappropriate comments, jokes, and harassment. These actions contribute to a hostile work environment and perpetuate the notion that women are to be objectified rather than respected as coworkers.
To illustrate her point, she shares a personal story from her early career. When inappropriate talk about her was happening behind her back, a young apprentice stood up for her, effectively stopping the disrespectful behavior. This act of solidarity highlights the impact that one person can have in creating a safe and respectful workplace.
**Empowering Women to Speak Up**
Dee also addresses the women in the industry, urging them to report harassment and stand in solidarity with each other. She cites a disturbing statistic: 88% of women in the construction field have experienced sexual harassment. This pervasive issue cannot be ignored. Women must demand accountability from their harassers and refuse to be pushed aside or silenced. Dee reminds her audience that silence is dangerous—"silence gets us killed."
The podcast emphasizes the importance of community and support, referring to the concept of being a “battle buddy” within organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). This support network is crucial for women to feel safe and empowered to stand against workplace violence and harassment.
**Taking Action**
Dee encourages everyone in the industry to participate in the “Be That One Guy” campaign, which provides resources for training and support on harassment prevention. She emphasizes the need for men to transform from bystanders to upstanders, actively participating in creating a culture where harassment is not tolerated. www.bethatoneguy.com
Conclusion:
This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure safety and respect for women in the construction industry. As Dee passionately declares, “We can’t have another Outi Hicks or Amber Czech.” The key takeaway is clear: it takes collective effort—men and women standing together—to foster a work environment where everyone can thrive without fear of violence or harassment.
#battlebuddy #bethatoneguy #weareoutihicks #weareamberczech #construction #womenintrades #nawic #womenintrades #tradeswomenbuildnations
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