What is Sexual Harassment?
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), sexual harassment is unlawful and occurs when a person (an applicant or employee) is harassed because of their sex. This harassment can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Importantly, harassment doesn’t have to be explicitly sexual; it can also involve offensive remarks about a person’s sex. For instance, making offensive comments about women in general is considered illegal harassment. Both the victim and the harasser can be of any gender, and the harasser may be a supervisor, co-worker, or even someone not employed by the same organization (such as a client or customer). Harassment becomes illegal when it is frequent, severe, and creates a hostile or offensive work environment, or when it results in adverse employment decisions (such as termination or demotion). Contact The LegalSuite™ for guided counsel on how to handle your specific matter. We zealously advocate for our clients' best interest and are readily available to bring you justice!
What If I Experience Sexual Harassment At Work?
If you experience sexual harassment at work we advise consulting an experienced employment attorney. But, individuals may also consider taking the following steps:
- Document the incidents: Write down details of each incident, including dates, times, locations, people involved, and what was said or done. Keep any relevant emails, texts, or other evidence.
- Review your company’s policies: Check your employee handbook or company policies to understand the reporting process. Typically, you’ll need to report the harassment to HR or a designated person.
- Report the harassment: Notify your supervisor, HR, or another appropriate person within your organization. Be specific about what happened and provide your documentation.
- Seek support: Talk to a trusted colleague, friend, or family member about your experience. Emotional support is crucial during this time.
- Know your rights: Research your rights under local and federal laws. In the U.S., the EEOC enforces anti-discrimination laws related to sexual harassment.
- Consider legal advice: Consult with The LegalSuite™ where we have skilled employment attorneys who have represented clients in similar matters to explore your options. We can guide you on filing a complaint with the EEOC or pursuing legal action.
Remember, every situation is unique, so consult a legal professional for personalized advice. Your well-being matters, and you deserve a safe work environment.
Types of Sexual Harassment
Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment: In Latin, “quid pro quo” means “this for that.” It occurs when a supervisor asks or hints at sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits. These benefits might include wage increases, promotions, or better work assignments. The harasser uses their position of power to intimidate or coerce the other party into submission. Importantly, this can happen regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Hostile Work Environment Sexual Harassment: Unlike quid pro quo, hostile work environment sexual harassment doesn’t involve direct promises of benefits. Instead, it consists of repeated sexual advances, offensive comments, or unwelcome physical contact that creates an intimidating or offensive work environment. Both men and women can experience this type of harassment, and the harasser need not be of the opposite sex.