Accusations surface against PinkNews founders for inappropriate behavior

In the United Kingdom, serious allegations have surfaced against Benjamin Cohen and his husband Anthony James, the founders of the LGBT news website PinkNews. These claims, made by over 30 former staff members between 2017 and 2024, detail inappropriate behavior within the company's culture, particularly highlighting a prevalent drinking culture at work events. Witnesses reported instances of Mr. James engaging in inappropriate physical contact with a junior colleague, allegedly when the individual was too intoxicated to give consent, which raised significant concerns about workplace ethics and safety. The accusations extend beyond simply improper behavior, suggesting a systemic issue of misogyny within PinkNews. Some employees reported being asked to act as surrogates for the couple, a request often couched in humor but ultimately leaving many feeling uncomfortable and belittled. The culture at PinkNews has been characterized as toxic, with several individuals recalling instances where Mr. Cohen would shout at and demean employees, creating an atmosphere filled with fear and compliance rather than open communication. Evidence to support these claims includes official complaints, emails, and even doctors' notes citing stress-related ailments linked to the work environment. The allegations have prompted discussions around not only the ethical responsibilities of leadership figures in media organizations but also the expectations of workplace conduct. Many staff noted that the fear of retaliation, particularly due to Mr. James's close ties to senior management, discouraged them from voicing their concerns or filing formal complaints. This silence highlights a troubling dynamic that persists in workplaces: individuals often feel trapped under the weight of their leadership's power and influence. The allegations implicate not just individual misdeeds but speak to a broader issue of corporate responsibility and the need for institutions to foster safe, respectful work environments. As the investigation by the BBC continues, public and professional scrutiny of PinkNews and its founders increases, potentially affecting the outlet's reputation and its role within activism for the LGBT community. The exposure of such allegations calls into question the integrity of those in positions of power and pushes for a reckoning within corporate cultures that prioritize profit or influence over ethical behavior.