Anita Hill: ‘The Weinstein verdict is a much-needed sign of our commitment to justice… But it’s just a case’

Hollywood Commission Chairwoman Anita Hill responded today to Harvey Weinstein’s conviction by a Los Angeles jury on three counts of sex crimes, which could mean 18 to 24 years behind bars for the Oscar winner. Many of Weinstein’s accusers said they were lured into hotel room meetings that they thought were business-related but turned out to be predicates of assault.

“Weinstein’s ruling is a much-needed reminder of our commitment to justice and individual responsibility. But it’s just a case, despite its profile and importance. Real progress toward safer and fairer workplaces requires recognition of institutional practices and corporate culture that tolerate abuse, discrimination, harassment and bullying,” wrote Hill, who was, of course, at the center of the workplace harassment allegations against Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas upon his confirmation. heard .

Hill stressed the need to continue working to “eliminate this behavior.”

Chaired by Hill and founded by board members Kathleen Kennedy and Nina Shaw, the Hollywood Commission was established in 2017 to bring together entertainment industry executives, independent experts and consultants to take the collective action needed to end the culture of abuse. address and power imbalances that the industry is tackling. .

“While holding individuals accountable demonstrates our collective commitment to meaningful change, the entertainment industry must be equally committed to holding our institutions accountable.”

Here is Hill’s full statement:

Weinstein’s verdict is a much-needed reminder of our commitment to justice and individual responsibility. But it’s just a case, despite its profile and importance. Real progress towards safer and fairer workplaces requires recognition of institutional practices and corporate cultures that tolerate abuse, discrimination, harassment and bullying. The Hollywood Commission is at the forefront of fighting this behavior. We are committed to working with our partners across all industries to provide useful standards of conduct, relevant programs, proven training and practical resources that help reduce workplace misconduct across the industry. While holding individuals accountable demonstrates our collective commitment to meaningful change, the entertainment industry must be equally committed to holding our institutions accountable.

Anita Hill, chairman of the Hollywood Commission