May 12, 2026: Sexual Harassment in Public Safety: Lessons from Leadership, Investigations, and Personal Experience
Sexual harassment remains a persistent challenge in public safety organizations. While many agencies have policies in place, harassment continues to affect workplace culture, trust, and retention, and is often underreported or insufficiently addressed. In this Justice Clearinghouse webinar, Tanya Meisenholder, Terry Dwyer, and Carryn Barker will discuss sexual harassment in public safety through the perspectives of leadership, investigations, and personal experience. The conversation will focus on how harassment shows up in everyday work environments, why reporting can be difficult, and how organizational responses can either build or undermine confidence in the system. Carryn Barker will share her personal experience as a survivor of sexual harassment in San Mateo, including what it was like to come forward and seek accountability. Her experience provides important context for understanding the impact of agency actions and inaction on employees and organizations. The session will highlight practical considerations for leaders and staff responsible for preventing harassment, responding to complaints, and supporting employees.