Acknowledging the Fallacy Behind “Not All Men”

by Mackenzie Hedges

During women’s history month, the 97 percent sexual harassment statistic became quite popular over multiple media platforms. With the new light shown on sexual harassment towards women, the phrase “not all men” has become quite relevant.

The first thing to note is, what is the 97% statistic? The UK branch of the United Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women conducted a study that reported 97% of women age 18-24 have experienced some form of sexual harassment. Many people have said that this report may not be valid in an argument considering its pool number of 1,000 women. In truth, the high percentage is not the most important part of the argument. The percentage can distract from the point, which still occurs for too many women.

Think of it like this--Lyme disease. Maybe all ticks don’t carry it, but a few do. Some people protect themselves from the few that do because there is no way to tell from the ones that don't. Relate this to when women are walking on the street. There are tactics taught to women to protect themselves, just in case. Some examples: holding keys in your hand, carrying pepper spray, walking in groups or in a well-light area, not staying out too late. Women use these tactics, not because they see a man and think he is going to be the one. The problem is that there isn’t a way to tell who may be a dangerous one.

Oftentimes, when conversations about sexual harassment against women come up, the comment “not all men” comes up. That is true. Not all men are dangerous. Not everyone will harm you. Here is the thing, though, this phrase is defensive. It isn’t helpful in aiding conversation and it isn’t used when you talk about sexual harassment in broad terms. The phrase is used to belittle women’s fear and reality. Junior Ailis Hayden states it like this. “It’s a tactic used to invalidate the people calling out for help or sharing their experiences.” Saying “not all men” deters from the point and takes on a self-protecting tone. It’s not about the men, it’s about the women who aren’t safe.

Instead of firing back with “not all men” during a conversation, just listen. Make it clear that you’re empathetic without assuming how they feel. Be sure to be careful with the questions you ask. Try to let them speak. Whatever can be done to make them feel comfortable is more important than declaring that not all men are the issue.