This past year across the country, we heard about countless stories of sexual assault and harassment in the workplace. From the entertainment industry to big corporations – and yes, even in our own Roundhouse – this was a moment of reckoning for many. But for most women, this was nothing new.

For too long, workplaces have protected those who have committed these acts through processes that don’t protect victims and further embolden the “that’s how it’s always been” culture. This year at the legislature, our voices ranged from #MeToo to #TimesUp, and together, we’ve changed the narrative.

My colleagues and I – Republicans and Democrats – worked to expand the legislature’s anti-harassment policies, including provisions for outside counsel, independent oversight, and more frequent anti-harassment trainings for legislators, staff and lobbyists. And it passed.

When we work together, things get done. When women feel safe in the workplace, things get done. And when our streets are safe, things get done.

Protecting our community has always been a priority for me, and I’m proud to have introduced and co-sponsored bipartisan legislation to prevent DWIs, increase public safety, improve health care access, and ensure criminals can’t purchase firearms.

As always, serving in the legislature has been a service and honor I’ve never taken lightly, and I look forward to hearing more feedback from my neighbors and constituents.

Liz Thomson is a Democrat who represents House District 24.