Atlanta 9to5

Sexual harassment

Sexual Harassment— It’s Against the Law

Have you experienced any of the following at work?

· Suggestive comments about your appearance

· Unwanted touching or other physical contact

· Unwanted sexual jokes or comments

· Sexual advances

· Exposure to pornographic pictures

 

If you have experienced any unwanted verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, you are not alone.  This behavior is considered sexual harassment.

It’s not only offensive, it’s against the law.  Sexual harassment is illegal even if the harasser is not your boss, even if he is not threatening that you will lose your job if you don’t go along. 

 

What the Law Says:

Sexual harassment is unwanted, repeated sexual attention at work.

It is illegal if:

· Your job depends on your going along with the behavior, or

· The conditions of your employment (such as pay, promotion, vacation) depend on your going along with the behavior, or

· The harassment creates a hostile or offensive work environment which interferes with your ability to do your job.

Everyone has the right to a workplace free of harassment!

 

What Can You Do?

Say No Clearly.  Inform the harasser that his attentions are unwanted.  Make clear you find the behavior offensive.  If it persists, write a memo to the harasser asking him to stop; keep a copy.

Document the Harassment. Write down each incident including date, time and place.  Detail what happened and include your response.  Keep a copy at home.  This information will be useful if you need to take legal action.

Get Emotional Support from friends and family.

Document Your Work.  Keep copies of performance evaluations and memos that attest to the quality of your work.  The harasser may question your job performance in order to justify his behavior.

Look for Witnesses and Other Victims.  You are probably no the first person who has been mistreated by this individual.  Ask around—you may find others who will support your charge.  Two accusations are much harder to ignore than one.

Explore Company Channels.  Use any grievance procedures or channels detailed in your employee handbook.  If you’re in a union, get the union steward involved right away.

File a Complaint.  If you need to pursue a legal remedy, contact your state discrimination agency or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Consult an Attorney.  You do not need an attorney to file a claim, but you may want to speak with a legal service or private attorney specializing in employment discrimination.