Erin Gordon’s Brave Story of Confronting Harassment in Big Law
Erin Gordon, a former lawyer turned author, has recently released a powerful book titled “Look What You Made Me Do: Confronting Heartbreak & Harassment in Big Law.” In this candid memoir, Gordon reflects on her experiences as a young associate in the early 1990s, shedding light on the challenges she faced almost 25 years before the #MeToo movement gained momentum. Despite changing the names of key players and her law firm, Gordon bravely shares her story, supported by documents from her time at the firm and interviews with former colleagues.
Gordon’s decision to publish her experiences in a nonfiction format was driven by the shocking nature of the events she encountered. She believed that the unbelievable reality of her experiences would be lost if presented as fiction. For instance, she recalls a disturbing memo written by a partner that delved into her personal and romantic life, a situation so outrageous that it seemed too far-fetched for fiction. By blending memoir with journalism, including interviews and written materials from her past, Gordon paints a vivid picture of the toxic environment she navigated in Big Law.
One of the striking aspects of Gordon’s narrative is the stark contrast between the camaraderie enjoyed by male colleagues in a boys’ club culture and the lack of support for women at the firm. Reflecting on her experiences, Gordon expresses frustration towards the few women partners who failed to offer guidance or mentorship to younger female associates like herself. Despite understanding the challenges these women faced in a patriarchal environment, Gordon longed for a supportive figure who could have made a difference in her journey.
The process of revisiting painful memories and sharing her story was not easy for Gordon. She confronted suppressed emotions and spent hours delving into past traumas, often feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of her interviews. However, the outpouring of support and validation from readers has made the emotional journey worthwhile. Many individuals have reached out to Gordon, expressing how her story has resonated with them and facilitated their own healing process.
Through her book, Gordon aims to challenge the narrative of self-blame often associated with instances of harassment. By adopting a journalistic approach to her own story, she encourages readers to reexamine their experiences objectively and recognize the lasting impact of microaggressions and harassment in the workplace. Gordon emphasizes the cumulative effect of such behaviors, highlighting the need for awareness and accountability in addressing workplace harassment.
As Gordon’s courageous story continues to resonate with readers, she hopes to inspire reflection and dialogue on the pervasive issue of harassment in professional settings. By sharing her experiences and advocating for change, Gordon empowers others to confront their own narratives and strive for a more inclusive and respectful work environment.
In conclusion, Erin Gordon’s journey from a marginalized associate to a vocal advocate for change exemplifies the resilience and courage needed to confront systemic issues in the legal profession. Her book serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in sparking meaningful conversations and driving positive transformation. Through her unwavering commitment to truth and justice, Gordon paves the way for a more equitable future in Big Law and beyond.