Statement on Recent Investigation

For Immediate Release
November 13, 2024

Statement from Council President Yannette Figueroa Cole:

“City of Madison residents have entrusted elected officials to carry out the will of the people and make difficult decisions on behalf of the entire community. Especially in our capacity as public servants, we must be held to the highest professional and ethical standards. It’s also our responsibility as elected officials to ensure city employees and officials have a workplace free of discrimination, harassment, and hostility.

While the investigation into charges of alleged sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct against Alder Myadze found insufficient evidence to constitute a violation of the City of Madison APM 3-5, the report details significant issues that we must address. 

The report reveals a troubling pattern of behavior we cannot overlook, detailing instances of unwanted and inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature that created significant trauma for all complainants.

It also uncovers an unwelcome pattern of bullying, repeated aggressive behaviors, and creating an unacceptable power imbalance. In various ways throughout the report, the complainants describe how to navigate hostile environments, fear paralyzing them, and feeling compelled to appease their aggressor to avoid conflict and more harm while at the same time maintaining a professional environment to accomplish their work and goals. These are all signs of the fight-flight-freeze-fawn responses. These reactions often prevent victims from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of silence that takes a toll on the mental health of victims of sexual harassment.

Collectively, we must create an environment that promotes safety and dignity and is free of bullying, sexual harassment and hostility for all community members, including City staff and Council members. These findings are a perfect reminder of the work that lies ahead. We must foster a culture where every individual feels empowered to speak out without fear and feel safe in their environment.

In July, 2024, the Council adopted an update to the Council Code of Conduct to include examples of sexual harassment and defined a reporting process. I want to acknowledge the courage and energy it took for the complainants to come forward and place their trust in the system. It is the first time we have completed an investigation under this Code of Conduct, and I am committed to applying the lessons learned to the continued improvement of city processes, policies, and procedures. 

As a result of this investigation, we have identified the need to dive deeply into our policies and processes to ensure that when victims come forward, they feel supported and heard. We also want to make any changes necessary so our policies and processes take into consideration the trauma victims have experienced and the many ways it can show up in their response. Finally, we also want to make sure the policy and outcomes address behavior that causes harm and is counter to our values and goals, even if those behaviors do not technically violate the law.”