Sexual harassment is a serious problem in today’s workplace. And while every workplace should be free from sexual harassment or discrimination of any type, there are laws in place in order to protect employees.
Since these cases do happen, and often, it is critical that employees understand their rights and what to do if they become a victim of harassment, sexual or otherwise.
Recognizing Sexual Harassment
From the request of sexual acts, to sexual advances, to sexual comments, sexual harassment can rear its ugly head in a variety of ways. This is why it is important to recognize what qualifies as sexual harassment, including the following:
- Implying an employee has to sleep with, or preform sexual favors, in order to keep their job or to receive a promotion
- Requests for dates or sexual favors
- Unwelcome sexual advances
- Demeaning comments, especially when they are in regards to a person’s body, or sexual in nature
- Unwelcome sexually physical or verbal conduct
- Sexually explicit content or materials sent via email, posted on bulletin boards, or shared verbally
Many people think that sexual harassment won’t happen to them, however it can happen to anybody, anywhere. Whether it comes from a supervisor, a co-worker, or even a customer or vendor, sexual harassment happens.
Even though the majority of sexual harassment claims consists of women filing claims that, stating that they have been sexually harassed by a man, sexual harassment cases can be gender-neutral as well.
What To Do If You Have Been Sexually Harassed
If you feel that you have become a victim of sexual harassment in your workplace, it is critical that you refer to your company’s sexual harassment policy, addressing the issue as soon as possible, going through the appropriate channels.
In the event that your claim is not being handled appropriately, contact an experienced sexual harassment attorney immediately.
Maduff & Maduff have been specializing in sexual harassment, discrimination, and other workplace issues for more than 20 years. Contact us today if you have any questions in regards to your workplace or sexual harassment issue.