Is the #MeToo Movement and Expression for Women Only?

Is #MeToo an ‘only women allowed’ conversation?
 
I have noticed something interesting as I observed and participated in the ‘Me Too’ social media # campaign.
 
It was reignited by Actress Alyssa Milano in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein allegations however it was originally started 10 years ago by Tarana Burke.
 
I shared my experiences and thoughts on some of the reasons why the majority of these women and Actresses didn’t speak up and speak out about Harvey before. You can watch the #FacebookLive replay here: https://www.facebook.com/marilyn.devonish/videos/10155582566741007/
 
Is #MeToo for Women Only?
Is #MeToo for Women Only?
My observation has been there appears to be an unwritten rule that I’ve missed which says that it is a # for women to use to share their experiences and one that men can only observe or sympathise with. 
 
This appears to be because this kind of violation against women is often perpetrated by men, and I know that there are women abusers out there who abuse both men and women, or it may just be that I haven’t yet come across the experiences and stories of men. 
 
I also know that there are also men out there who have been sexually abused; Corey Feldman has been speaking out about it for years, and one of the most powerful Oprah Winfrey Show episodes was a studio full of men and led by Actor and Film Producer Tyler Perry who spoke about his story and invited the men, many of whom were sharing for the first time, to share their stories too.  In the wake of recent allegations and revelations I find myself wondering if there are male celebrity Actors who will now start to come forward and speak up. 
 
So for the men who have been abused, have you been using the #metoo?
 
If not, why not?
 
 
Marilyn Devonish <3
 

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