Murray Takes Another Step to Shine a Spotlight on Workplace Harassment, Requests Information from Groups Representing Tech Industry on Efforts to Address and Combat Harassment

Murray sent letters to associations representing companies in the technology and venture capital industries, inquiring about harassment statistics and steps being taken to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace

Leaders in this sector have made national headlines over the last year for discriminatory and abusive behavior

One study found 60% of women in the tech industry received unwanted sexual advances in the workplace

Murray: “Workers across the country are speaking out about their experiences, and their stories have made clear that we all have a great deal of work to do to address this pervasive, systemic, and longstanding issue.”

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee sent letters to three technology and venture capital trade associations requesting industry data on harassment, as well as an update on measures being taken to address workplace harassment among their associated employers. Recent surveys indicate 60 percent of women in the technology sector have experienced unwanted sexual advances at work. As many people come forward and share their stories of harassment, Senator Murray is working to ensure that every person no matter where they work, or how much money they make, has a workplace free from harassment.

“In recent months, stories of sexual harassment have dominated the headlines and sparked a national conversation about change, power dynamics, and equality in the workplace and beyond,” wrote Senator Murray. “Last year, we saw headlines about leaders in the technology sector who were called to account for their actions. I hope and expect that you have begun taking steps to address concerns about misconduct in your industry and to ensure that your members’ workplaces are free from harassment.”

These letters are the latest in a series of inquiries sent by Senator Murray to address workplace harassment in industries outside the spotlight. Senator Murray has sent letters to the Departments of Education, Labor, and Health and Human Services, as well as 12 major trade associations that represent the industries with some of the highest rates of sexual harassment reporting, including restaurant, hotel, and retail workers.

Senator Murray sent letters to the National Venture Capital Association, TechNet, and the Internet Association.

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