"North Country" Illustrates Woman's Brave Fight Against Violence, Sexual Harassment

NOW Partnered with Movie's Producers in Story Inspired by Landmark Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

By Campbell Roth, Publications Coordinator

October 21, 2005

Every few years, Hollywood puts out a movie that reminds people that women are strong, determined, and will put everything on the line for justice.

In 1979, "Norma Rae" fought for the right to unionize. In 2000, a corporate killer was brought to justice by "Erin Brockovich." In 2005, Hollywood does it again with "North Country."

Academy-award winner Charlize Theron stars as Josey Aimes, a single mother who takes a job in the iron mines of Northern Minnesota — a lucrative job where men outnumber women 30 to 1 and make it clear that they think women don't belong. The movie is inspired by a true story, the case of Jenson v. Eveleth Mines — the first class-action sexual harassment lawsuit in U.S. history.

The movie includes shocking scenes of violence against women, infuriating responses from the businessmen who ignore Josey's pleas for help, and the remarkable courage of a woman who only wants to provide a good life for her children — just as men do.

"I don't want to shut down the mine," Josey tells the miners in one heart-stopping scene. "I just wanna go to work like everyone else. Get paid, end of the week. Feed my kids, and maybe now and then have enough left for a beer Saturday night."

Director Niki Caro ("Whale Rider") passionately depicts the frustration and courage of women going up against a wall of opposition in the workplace and the courtroom.

The movie co-stars Frances McDormand (Oscar-winner for "Fargo") as Josey's friend and fellow miner, Glory, who bravely fights alongside Josey despite her own personal battle. Woody Harrelson also stars as Bill White, a hockey star-turned-lawyer who recognizes the injustice perpetrated by the men at the mines and joins Josey in her courageous fight. Sissy Spacek shines as Josey's mother, ashamed at first that her daughter works alongside men at the mines, but later committed to supporting her right to make a living free from harassment.

"North Country" will spur some viewers into action. Others will leave saddened by the harsh reality the movie portrays. But none will exit the theater without being touched by Josey's fight to see that no woman will have to endure her pain.

Read about NOW's partnership with the movie producer.

Sign NOW's Women-Friendly Workplace Campaign Consumer Pledge.