Letters

I am compelled to respond to the letters of Frances Genovese [“Killing Fields,” August 19] and Linda Slezak [“Don’t Be A ‘Snowflake,’” September 2], criticizing the women who made credible accusations of sexual harassment against former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Significantly, Mr. Cuomo admitted engaging in most of the conduct these women detailed, only claiming he did not intend offense. Apart from the dismissive attitude of both letters, downplaying the seriousness of these women’s experiences, these writers ignore the fact that Mr. Cuomo’s behavior arose in the context of employment: Cuomo as boss, these women as subordinates.

Ms. Genovese and Ms. Slezak would have female employees “say no” or “slap on the face” in the moment when confronted with sexual harassment on the job. Ms. Slezak views this as a women’s “power.” Really? When Cuomo ran his hand across the stomach of the state trooper whom Cuomo specifically requested be put on his detail, from her belly button to her right hip, she was to “grow up” and either say no or slap him in the face? Exercising her “power” then would mean losing her job.

Ms. Genovese and Ms. Slezak are telling women in the workplace to either tolerate such harassment or risk losing their jobs. Some power, indeed.

Mary Faucher

North Sea