It’s easy enough to enjoy some righteous indignation when the Roy Moores of the world are accused of sexual harassment, but I have a different reaction when people I admire like Garrison Keillor, Louis C.K. and Al Franken are  the accused.   But in the final analysis, if  they have done the deeds they are accused of, they too must suffer  the consequences.

John Huston was one of the most important directors in  Hollywood in the 1940’s and 50’s.  He became friends with a well-known jockey for a time, but then somehow lost interest in his new friend.   When the jockey didn’t take the hint, Huston went out of his way to insult and humiliate him.  Eventually, some of Huston’s friends became so uncomfortable with his cruelty towards  someone who only  admired him that one  asked Huston why he acted in such an ugly manner.  Huston’s reply is one we should remember– “Because I can!”

The only way to end our epidemic of  predatory acts against women is to make it clear that they will be punished  no matter who is the perpetrator.  There can be no “good guy” exception.

Keillor is a special case in that he denies the allegations.  Even a rudimentary concept of fairness requires that he be allowed a forum to show his innocence.  And, even if he is guilty of the acts charged,  we do not have to stop admiring the work of  people like Keillor, C.K., and Franken, nor should it prevent us from wishing  them well in their new lives.