By Lisa K. Hollenbach

President, Schuylkill County Women’s League

The Schuylkill County Democratic Women’s League, as a progressive civic organization, should and must hold our county officials to the highest standard against sexual harassment. By virtue of the offices they hold, these individuals are obligated to ensure that every county employee, liaison and citizen with whom they interact feels safe, valued and respected. With respect to sexual harassment, our officials must hold themselves to an even stricter standard than the law requires. In recent months, our county officers have failed to meet this obligation.

Women are most frequently the victims of sexual harassment, however, sexual harassment, intimidation and abuse are pervasive problems that permeate every sector of our society. They impact both men and women - regardless of sexual preference or gender identification. According to a national survey, 81% of women and 43% of men have experienced some form of sexual harassment during their lifetime.

More than three out of four women - 77% - have been verbally harassed and 51% have been sexually touched without their permission. Approximately 66% of women report being harassed in public spaces and 38% reported being harassed in the workplace. Victims experience shame, trauma, anxiety and depression - and often suffer repercussions in the workplace that reverberate throughout their careers.

The sheer number of women who share these experiences is nothing short of astonishing, as evidenced by the viral #MeToo movement, which ignited a national and global conversation on sexual harassment.

Many women have since come forward with their experiences of being sexually harassed by colleagues and bosses, costing influential men in the entertainment industry, in politics, and the media their reputations and, in some cases, their jobs.

Nevertheless, we know very few victims of sexual harassment confront their harasser. Instead, they change their own lives to avoid harassers and reduce their risks of being harassed. Most victims don’t report their harassers, or even share their experiences with friends and family. Therefore, sexual harassment thrives on the silence of women, granting impunity to perpetrators.

We refuse to remain silent.

George Halcovage Jr., described as a “serial harasser,” has been credibly accused of repeatedly violating county policy with respect to sexual harassment, discrimination, and physical and verbal abuse of employees.

The county’s solicitor’s and human resources offices investigated the allegations and determined that Halcovage violated three county policies - sexual harassment, conduct and discipline, and physical and verbal abuse. Further, the investigation determined that if Halcovage was an employee he would be suspended and recommended for termination - but there is no mechanism to remove him.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro’s office decided last month not to charge Halcovage for alleged harassment of female county employees, citing statute of limitations. This means that George Halcovage has retained his position of power and authority, and every day he is in the courthouse in the role of commissioner it is an affront to his victims - as well as all victims of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Since the completion of the county investigation, only a handful of county officials have called for his resignation.

Instead, courthouse policies were revised to accommodate Halcovage and allow for him to be on the premises. The only consequence for his behavior thus far was stepping down from his position as chairman, but not from his position as commissioner. It is ultimately George Halcovage - the perpetrator - who has the power to determine if or when he vacates his office. This is unacceptable, it is an injustice, and it is a violation of civil rights.

The Schuylkill County Women’s League stands in solidarity with the victims of sexual harassment and assault in Schuylkill County and beyond. We wholly condemn George Halcovage’s actions and demand his immediate resignation from the office of Schuylkill County Commissioner.