In recent months, the Time’s Up movement has become an incredibly visible effort to end sexual harassment and inequality in the workplace. In order to shine more light on the cause, actress Rashida Jones directed an animated PSA video (written by Rachel Brian) that details exactly what types of unwanted touching or sexual advancements have no place in the modern work force. As an added layer of star power for the initiative, actor Donald Glover lends his voice to the short film, narrating the details.
“There’s been a lot of discussion about whether that’s even fair to link someone pinching an ass or something off-color at work to an actual assault,” Rashida shared in an interview with Buzzfeed. “I think a lot of people struggle with the connection, because they think it’s dramatic to connect the two. So the PSA is intended to explain that there are these nuanced dynamics that are happening when there’s a power imbalance.”
“It’s been a tough conversation to include men in, because I think there are a lot of things women feel men have not understood up until now, and they don’t feel like it’s their job to educate them,” she added, explaining that she reached out to Donald as an old friend who had a lot of value to add to the story. When there’s so much unbelievable news happening all around the world, it’s really helpful to hear big ideas coming from a friendly voice — and with a simple and engaging animation like this video utilizes.
“I really respect his ability to be a part of and criticize culture at the same time — I think it’s a really hard balance to strike,” Rashida said of Donald. “He brings this kind of cool, laid-back energy to it … which I think is good, because I think all of us have kind of preach fatigue.”
If you’re feeling defensive, or just a little bit confused at where you stand, this PSA is a really helpful boundary-setter. And if you worry about being taken advantage of in your own workplace, this is a great clip to casually keep at hand.
Make sure to check out the video by watching it on Buzzfeed below, and leave us your reactions to the work.
Time’s Up Made A PSA About Sexual Harassment
Rashida Jones has been involved with Time’s Up since October, before the organization – formed during the cathartic, chaotic aftermath of the Harvey Weinstein sexual assault and harassment investigations – even had a name.
