Truth and Reconciliation as a Model for Change in Response to # MeToo

The U . S . criminal justice system is designed to handle extreme cases of sexual misconduct , but the system has not adapted well to less extreme (but no less important) sexually inappropriate behaviors . As our understanding of sexual misconduct and impropriety evolves , the need for a new system of accountability seems apparent . The authors call for a new approach to providing justice for survivors/victims: the adoption of a truth and reconciliation model . This model involves providing a public forum for survivors/victims to testify to the events of their victimization and for offenders to admit previous wrongdoing , take responsibility , and ask forgiveness . While it is not appropriate for handling illegal behaviors , a truth and reconciliation model would be ideal for incidents that are not illegal but violate our evolving social norms .