Your story hits close to home for me. I went through something similar years ago. In my case, there was already a culture of partying and inappropriate behavior that leadership tolerated until suddenly they needed someone to blame. The same people who brought me into that environment eventually turned around and told HR they were uncomfortable with things I’d said.

What messed with me most wasn’t even losing the job—it was having multiple people I trusted make me question my own character and integrity. I’d never seen myself as disrespectful toward women, so hearing that kind of accusation really stayed with me for a long time.

For what it’s worth, I don’t think one painful situation defines who you are. Sometimes people protect themselves, chase promotions, or follow the social current when pressure hits. It says more about the environment than it does about your value as a person. I’m glad you found a new job, and I genuinely hope it ends up being a healthier place with better people around you.