John Legend thinks men have a "responsibility to do better" when it comes to stopping sexual harassment, in the wake of the alleged scandal involving Harvey Weinstein.
The ‘All of Me’ hitmaker has spoken out in defence of the multiple women who have accused the disgraced producer of sexually harassing them over a period of 30 years, as he thinks the conversation surrounding the scandal is "crucial" in bringing an end to such behaviour.
Speaking to AOL.com, John, 38, said: "First of all, sexism is awful and affects people all the time in the workplace and school and in so many other circumstances. What we’re seeing right now with the conversation around sexual assault and harassment is crucial. This really needs to change, because it affects so many people – particularly women – and it’s perpetrated the vast majority by men. We have a responsibility to do better as men. Hopefully we can improve the way that young men are thinking and behaving in regards to that.
"We could really affect the conversation when it comes to a lot of the issues we’re talking about in the press today that have to do with politics and culture and society and criminal justice. If we could have an impact on this issue early on with young people, it could really change the way they move in the world and make it better for all of us.
"It’s cool when people with social capital use it to make the world more free and loving and empathetic. I feel like we’re giving these young people that chance."
It isn’t the first time John – who has 18-month-old daughter Luna with his wife Chrissy Teigen – has spoken out against Weinstein either, as earlier this week he called his alleged actions "despicable".
He said: "I think he did some despicable things and he is rightfully being shamed for it. He shouldn’t be working in Hollywood if he’s abusing his position that way. I think it’s good we’re bringing light to this issue and hopefully more women will be able to tell their stories. Men need to listen and change their behaviour."
In light of the allegations made against Weinstein, 65, he has been fired from his position as co-chairman of The Weinstein Company, and his wife of 10 years Georgina Chapman has announced she is leaving him.
John Legend: Men should ‘do better’
