2023-06-02
Chairperson Lai Lays Out Three Reform Packages Aimed at Promoting Gender Equality
In response to the recent harassment cases within the party that have come to light, Lai Ching-te, chairperson of the Democratic Progressive Party, along with Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming held a temporary party leadership meeting. At the meeting Lai announced three new reform packages aimed at addressing gender-equality issues within the party. He also noted that if the DPP is to regain the trust of society, it must tackle the recent controversies head-on and with candor and humility.
The full text of Lai’s statement is as follows:
In response to the recently revealed cases of sexual misconduct within the party, I, as party chairperson, would like to start by apologizing once again to all those hurt while at the DPP for failing to stand with you when you needed us most.
At the same time, thank you all for having the courage to speak up and recall these traumatic events, especially so openly. I cannot even imagine the pain it must have caused. But I must assure you that, in the face of sexual misconduct and workplace bullying, there’s no placing the needs or interests of others above those of your own. Your personal safety and rights are of the highest priority.
Any person’s bodily autonomy must not be infringed upon, and the DPP must stand up a system through which anyone can easily report misconduct without fear or pressure–and be protected.
I would like to introduce the three new reform packages:
First, we will establish a direct complaints channel. Besides the currently known cases, the DPP has already established a complaints channel through which anyone can file complaints directly to the secretary-general. The Department of Gender Equality has also set up a special mailbox (dpphelpmee@gmail.com); only the director of the department has access to the anonymous messages therein.
For the complaint cases, we will open an investigation and hold the perpetrator accountable. For those who wish to file a lawsuit, we will provide counseling, emotional support resources and follow-up legal assistance.
Second, a Zero-Tolerance Policy: Perpetrators will be summarily dismissed, never again hired, and we will assist with the prosecution’s investigations. If they then switch to working for DPP politicians, in the administration or any organization affiliated with the party, we will apprise their employers of their wrongdoings so they can’t evade accountability.
Third, an immediate revision of the party constitution: To achieve preventive effects, we will strengthen intra-party gender-equality measures and enhance gender-equality education. We will take this opportunity to actively push for reform aimed at fostering a much safer and gender-friendly work environment.
However deep the scar of these events, eventually it must be exposed. We cannot expect the Taiwanese people to forgive us immediately. We, however, must introspect and reform. And to be worthy of our people, we must not give up on our values and ideals; instead, we must constantly undertake introspection and continue to push for progress.
