House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., emphasized Wednesday there is no excuse to sexually harass individuals, no matter one’s “contribution to our country” or how great the “legacy” of an individual.
Pelosi’s comments came ahead of a planned vote that would mandate sexual harassment training for all members and staff on Capitol Hill and as allegations continue to swirl around members of Congress, including Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., the longest-tenured House member.
“Zero tolerance means consequences for everyone, no matter your contribution to our country, you do not get a pass to harass or discriminate,” Pelosi said on the House floor. “No matter how great the legacy, it is not a license to harass or abuse.”
“This moment is a moment of truth for the Congress,” Pelosi said. “It is disappointing and disturbing that some in the Capitol have not served with the dignity and respect required of this office. It is very hard to accept that people we admire in public life and here in Congress have crossed the line and broken the public trust and violated the dignity and respect of those who have worked for or with them.”
Pelosi made waves on Sunday when she called Conyers an “icon” to the country during an interview. The longtime Michigan Democrat has retreated to his home district for the time being.
Rep. Cedric Richmond, D-La., chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, said earlier Wednesday the caucus is not urging Conyers to resign his seat, which he has held since 1963, despite allegations he sexually harassed members of his staff.
Pelosi urged the House Ethics Committee to expedite their investigation into the Conyers allegations.
