Statement Regarding NAR from President Sharon O’Mahony
September 1, 2023
We are shocked and saddened by the recent story in the New York Times detailing allegations of sexual harassment at the National Association of Realtors® and the subsequent resignation of NAR President Kenny Parcell.
These revelations should give us pause to reflect on the apparent shortcomings within our national organization that need to be addressed, and we acknowledge the courage of employees who raised their voices to be heard.
New NAR President Tracy Kaspar has announced a number of initiatives and actions to correct the current situation. We look forward to hearing more of what she plans to share with the NAR Board of Directors next week, and we pledge to do our part to move these initiatives forward rapidly.
Seattle King County Realtors® takes seriously any allegation of impropriety by any volunteer or member of our association staff. Sexual harassment is illegal in the workplace. Under my Presidency, we have reviewed all of our policies regarding harassment and volunteer/staff relationships. We have updated those policies into a new “Code of Conduct” by which all volunteers and staff must abide and are trained to follow.
But policies and training can only go so far. Our organization is unique in its structure and expectations, in which staff and volunteers work closely together to further our mission. It is incumbent upon us to build a culture of trust, where openness and accountability are expected at all times. Our Code of Ethics pledges us to a standard of behavior in every real estate transaction. We must extend the spirit of that Code to our interactions within our organization and throughout our brokerage industry.
Please join me in that effort as we move forward for the betterment of our profession.
Sharon O’Mahony, President