While guest-hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Tracee Ellis Ross packed a powerful punch in a brilliant skit for men who just can’t seem to get their heads around the issue of sexual harassment.
“There is something I wanted to talk about tonight, and that’s the Hollywood sexual harassment scandal. First of all, let’s start with the fact that it isn’t a sex scandal. It isn’t a Hollywood scandal. It isn’t even a scandal. It is a systemic problem about the abuse of power that takes place across all industries and has enabled a culture of inequity to persist for far too long,” Ross said.
“Over the past few months, countless brave women have come forward to share their experiences. While I’m not totally surprised by these stories, it seems like quite a few men are.”
But just in case there’s any confusion on what is or isn’t appropriate, the comedic actress did a live reading of her “children’s book” for Handsy men:
“There is a guy with 10 long fingers, creepy glares and hugs that linger. If you’re a woman, you’re not a fan. I speak, of course, of The Handsy Man. Handsy Man, based on the news, you seem to be a bit confused. Listen, and I’ll explain to you all the things you may not do. You may not compliment my butt. You may not call me ‘ho’ or ‘slut.’
And even if you’re stoned or drunk, do not expose me to your junk. And if I am your employee, don’t rest your hand upon my knee. No, I won’t sit on your lap. I shouldn’t have to say this crap. You cannot smell my hair, you creep, or grab my boobs while I’m asleep. I do not want a back massage. Did you follow me into the parking garage? I do not like you, Handsy Man. You’re not allowed to touch my can. Not on a plane. Not on a train. Not on your boat. Not in a moat. Not in a tree. Not by the sea. Not in your mansion. Help me, Chris Hansen.
“So, Handsy Man, if you’re still confused whether your behavior will be excused, I’ll say it clearly, nice and slow,” Ellis Ross concluded. “If she doesn’t consent—the answer is NO.”