EMA’s Statement Against Sexual Harassment and Assault

On June 13, 2022, the EMA board of directors voted to release the following statement against sexual harassment and assault in our field and across society.

Early Music America stands in solidarity with those survivors of sexual assault, misconduct, or harassment within the early-music community. We acknowledge that abuse of power is a systemic problem within society that directly impacts individuals, their families, and community members in our field. Sexual violence is not only traumatic, but the burden of coming forward can be difficult and isolating.

Within our community, we are determined to cultivate a space where everyone can participate without fearing or experiencing misconduct or assault. Ultimately, we believe in the opportunity for all to participate and experience the joy of early music through acts of equity and integrity.

Resources

This is a curated list of resources and tools to help navigate and understand sexual misconduct within our field. This list is designed to grow and change as our community develops and gathers resources to support our members in need. If you have contributions you would like to make, please contact idea@earlymusicamerica.org  

What is consent?

There are various guides that provide information in regard to defining and understanding consent. It is important to note that both parties agree to engage in any activity through free and clear communication. This can be applied to teaching in the classroom when working with a student on posture, talking about triggering topics, and sexual activity, for example. Part of defining and understanding consent also means understanding boundaries, both implied and stated. 

More information can be found in these resources:

Articles: 

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment within the workplace can be defined in the United States as “unwelcome sexual advances […] that impacts an employment decision or interferes with the individuals work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or abusive work environment.”

More information on what constitutes sexual harassment:

Where can I get support?

As a community we are determined to provide information on where our members can find the support they need. These are some resources that can help with the sudden or ongoing trauma of an event of violence. 

Hotlines

  • United States
    • United States National Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (4673)
      https://www.rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-telephone-hotline
      Languages Available: English & Spanish
    • Anti-Violence Project:  212.714.1141
      https://avp.org/get-help/get-support/
    • Helping Survivors
      • Helping Survivors is a free resource center for people who are survivors of sexual abuse or assault in a variety of situations. Situations where these things often occur are ripe these days, whether it be in ride shares or from dating apps. Helping Survivors is available to help those who have been affected, by helping answer any questions, guiding them along their path to healing, and providing educational content.
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