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Politicians avoiding punishment amid sexual assault accusations, says expert

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VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – In recent weeks and months we have seen many high powered men lose their jobs after sexual misconduct accusations, yet politicians have largely avoided those repercussions.

Janni Aragon is a political scientist and gender studies expert at the University of Victoria. She says some of those politicians are preparing for their own scandals.

“We’re at a critical moment in history. I imagine there are lots of people deleting emails, photos and biting their fingernails.”

She says while we do have a different climate than the United States, we should remember our own history.

“Ralph Klein, may he rest in peace, was given a lot of leeway for his comments and jokes and there is a history of his comments.”

She also noted Rob Ford as a clear indication that Canadian politicians are not above sexual indiscretions.

Aragon believes changes in Washington like sexual harassment training is a step forward, but it’s not enough.

People need to understand that these actions will not be tolerated.

“They are not above the law and they will be treated fairly. Innocent until proven guilty, but nonetheless we are not going to sweep this under the rug as we have in the past.”

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