How the #MeToo movement affected sexual harassment in the hospitality industry: A U.S. case study

The media make it impossible to deny the sexual harassment crisis. Given the economic significance and demographic change in the labor pool, managing sexual harassment in the workplace is critical. Findings illustrate the volume of news coverage across America that focused on sexual harassment, with different industry sectors demonstrating significant increases of reported incidents after the Harvey Weinstein story. Critical Mass Theory is used to explain how the #MeToo Movement fostered industry-wide sexual harassment legislation. ANOVA identified significant differences before and after Weinstein as well as by the industry sector. Select literature with recommendations is also presented. •Sexual Harassment legislation in the hospitality industry.•Application of critical mass theory.•Human resource management in hospitality.•Policy implications for hotels and restaurants.•The critical mass of #Metoo.