Cheri,
There is something about your last set of comments that worry me. I don't know what it is but I have to tell you that sexual harassment is not abuse, rape or assault, it is on many levels a conceived notion based on being offended if it is not actually being a situation where one is told to do something outside the ethical boundaries.
Sorry - when the perpetrator is in a position of authority over the victim, it IS abuse. And the victim doesn't have to be 'told to do' anything - just the implication is enough, if the perception is that being offended will cost the victim a job, promotion, etc.
It's also abusive if it 'creates a hostile work environment', but I don't think that applies in this case - the implication is that Cain held power over the women.
I don't know if you went through any training for this or went through the process either as a victim or as a witness
I've been through the training, such as it is [usually a brief movie], but that's all - no involvement in any actual situations.
but I do find that one thing that stands out clear about this issue is that all parties involved are told not to talk about it and if there is a settlement, it is done to keep things quiet for the 'victim' whether they are a true victim or not.
Parties are instructed to agree to nondisclosure, yes, but not simply to 'protect the victim'. The perpetrator is also 'protected': from civil suits, and [surprise!] public exposure.
In cain's case, it is clear, he should not answer any questions about it but refer to the non-disclosure agreement in place.
If he wants to be nominated, much less elected, the people have a right to know what his character is, period.
With the other allegation of the other women, she should come up with some proof that either she was paid off or that she had a legit case. Without proper evidence, it is just speculation on the public's part and for the accuser, it is nothing more than a political ruse to damage someone no matter if it is true or not. You have to ask yourself why didn't she go to through the same process as the others before trying to say he is guilty.
There is no question that at least one woman was paid a year's salary.
A 'political ruse to damage someone' ? A smear campaign?
Sorry, neither applies: it's not a ruse [it happened]and if it damages Cain, it's his own fault.
People might be willing to overlook it, if he were honest and open - but he is neither, and that looks very very VERY bad in a presidential candidate.
PS the latest 'accuser' [with Gloria Allred beside her] is totally unbelievable, and irrelevant besides. All that counts is who spoke up years ago, before Cain was a contender.