The New York State Attorney General’s investigation of Governor Andrew Cuomo has revealed multiple and repeated allegations of sexual harassment and assault against eleven women, as well as a toxic work environment that has persisted throughout his three terms as governor.
Our elected officials pledge to uphold the rule of law and to protect human rights. Governor Cuomo has irrevocably broken this oath and severed the trust of New Yorkers.
The Governor’s disregard for women’s rights and equality cannot be tolerated. It is clear to us that Governor Cuomo is unfit for elected office and is no longer able to serve the people of New York. As a coalition of New York-based organizations dedicated to ending sexual harassment, violence, and discrimination against women we call on Governor Cuomo to step down immediately.
We also urge the authorities to hold Governor Cuomo and his office accountable for any and all violations of both state and local law, as well as the administration’s efforts to discredit and retaliate against the women who have accused the Governor of sexual misconduct.
It takes great courage to come forward with allegations of sexual harassment, especially against someone in a position of power. The public shaming and discrediting by the Cuomo administration and legal team creates a chilling effect for other women to speak out and demand justice.
We stand with the survivors of Cuomo as well as all survivors of sexual harassment and violence. We believe you and we will fight for you.
In Solidarity,
Taina Bien-Amie, Executive Director, Coalition Against Trafficking in Women
Nina DeJonghe, US Policy Director, ECPAT-USA
Yasmeen Hassan, Executive Director, Equality Now
Mary Haviland, Executive Director, New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault
Lauren Hersch, National Director, World Without Exploitation
Judy Kluger, Executive Director, Sanctuary for Families
Jane Manning, Director, Women’s Equal Justice Project
Sonia Ossorio, President, NOW New York
Lynn Shaw, Founder and Executive Director, Lynn’s Warriors
Shandra Woworuntu , CEO & Founder, Mentari Human Trafficking Survivor Empowerment Program