Sexual harassment occurs in places where it is tolerated. An environment where such behaviors are allowed to continue unchecked is ripe for abuse, harassment and discrimination. And it doesn't have to happy just in the office. Sexual harassment outside of the office at work sponsored functions can happen too.
Oftentimes, the individual who has faced sexual harassment may not even be certain that he or she is being harassed in the workplace because the employee may have been putting up with such behaviors for a long period of time.
So, how do you know that you are being sexually harassed at work? Here are a few indicators.
Table Of Contents:
- What Is Sexual Harassment?
- What Should You Do If You Are Being Sexually Harassed at Work?
- Types of Sexual Harassment
- What is Considered Harassing Conduct?
- Fear of Retaliation or Repercussions
- How to Prove Harassment in the Workplace
- Legal Framework for Sexual Harassment
- Reporting and Addressing Sexual Harassment
- Understanding Your Rights
- Taking Action Against Sexual Harassment
- Steps to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment
- FAQs in Relation to Am I Being Sexually Harassed at Work?
What is Sexual Harassment?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) defines sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is unlawful both under California and federal law. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sexual harassment under federal law while California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) makes it unlawful at the state level.
Both these laws consider sexual harassment as a form of employment discriminations. There are a number of actions that might count as sexual harassment in the workplace including:
- Jokes, slurs, epithets or comments
- Sexual propositioning
- Offering benefits or perks in the workplace in exchange for sexual favors
- Handing out sexually suggestive photographs
- Inappropriate or unwanted touching/physical contact
- Discussing sexual acts or asking about someone's sex life
- Threatening to fire or demote you if you do not comply with a sexual request
- Sexually suggestive or obscene messages or graphic comments
- Harassing via email, text or other types of messaging
Some of the actions mentioned above would not be considered workplace sexual harassment if they are welcome by the other party. An example is two coworkers willingly going out on a date. California's sexual harassment laws apply to all state, local and private employers irrespective of the size of their workforce. On the other hand, Title VII only applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
"Unwelcome behavior" is the critical phrase in sexual harassment law. While a victim may consent or agree to certain conduct and actively participate in it even though it is offensive and objectionable, sexual conduct is considered "unwelcome" whenever the person subjected to it considers it unwelcome.
If you feel like you are being sexually harassed at work, below are a few red flags to look for.
Red Flag #1: Sexual Behavior At Work Is Making You Feel Uncomfortable
Such behavior could range from sexual comments or requests you find unwanted or offensive and inappropriate touching.
There are many examples of such actions. You may feel uncomfortable when someone corners you in a tight space, asks you about your love life or sexual experiences, subjects you to hearing about their sexual experiences, keeps asking you to go out on a date with them or shows you pornographic materials.
In such situations, it is important that you trust your instincts. If it feels uncomfortable and inappropriate to you, it is highly likely that you are being sexually harassed.
If someone is touching you in a way that is uncomfortable or inappropriate, it is important that you speak up right away. Don't be a victim of sexual harassment. Unwanted physical contact is sexual harassment and is unacceptable. You are not obligated to touch, hug or kiss someone if you feel uncomfortable. If someone tries to do so, just say "no." If the physical harassment continues report the individual to your human resources department.
Red Flag #2: Inability To Stop The Behavior
This is absolutely unacceptable. Do not feel pressured to go out with someone just because they keep persisting. Contact an employment lawyer right away if your employer is unresponsive. An experienced sexual harassment attorney can guide you though the legal claims process and help you better understand your rights as a victim.
If you have tried a number of ways to discourage such behavior or have even candidly stated that you want it to stop, but it continues, then it is a clear indicator that you are being sexually harassed.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) states that simple teasing, off-hand comments or isolated incidents, which are not serious or criminal, may not qualify as sexual harassment.
However, when these incidents become frequent or severe and the behavior creates a hostile work environment, it is unlawful.
Red Flag #3: You Fear Retaliation
You may not have enough information or the appropriate channels to report sexual harassment in the workplace. You may also feel embarrassed or fear that your employer may not believe that you are the victim of workplace sexual harassment. In addition, if you've seen colleagues get put down or suffer negative repercussions as a result of speaking up, that may be another red flag.
You may fear retaliation and that is a clear sign not only that the harassment is serious, but also that you are in a toxic, unhealthy and hostile work environment.
Red Flag #4: Your Gender Is Holding You Back
Sexual harassment is not only harassment of a sexual nature, but also discrimination based on gender.
For example, if you are being demoted, passed over for opportunities or promotions because of your gender, such behavior could also be considered sexual harassment.
If you believe you are experiencing sexual harassment, it is important that you contact an experienced workplace sexual harassment lawyer who can provide you with more information about pursuing your legal rights. Call Kingsley & Kingsley Lawyers at (818) 990-8300 to find out how we can help you.
Red Flag #5: People Are Sharing Sexual Jokes Or Stories Around You
Making sexually explicit jokes or sharing sexual stories around you all amount to sexual harassment. Speak up telling the person that you are not comfortable and that such behavior is inappropriate.
Red Flag #6: You Are Being Stalked or Harassed Online
Here are some of the behaviors that cross the line when it comes to online activity
- Tracking and commenting on your online activity
- Sending frequent messages even if you do not reply
- Attempts to hack your accounts or devices to get information about you
- Showing up to places that you frequent, without invitation
- Other activity that makes you feel threatened or unsafe
Red Flat #7: Someone Is Asking For Sexual Favors In Return For Job Benefits
Being asked for sexual favors in exchange for job opportunities or promotions is unlawful. It is important that you document any such offers or requests and report them to your supervisor. Contact an employment lawyer immediately for help.
What Should You Do If You Are Being Sexually Harassed at Work?
There are several steps you can take if you are being sexually harassed at work:
Be direct with your harasser. It is within your rights to tell the harasser to stop the offensive or harassing behavior. Do your best to make it very clear to this individual that their harassing behavior is offensive to you and unwelcome.
Report the harassment to a supervisor. Report the harassment you are experiencing to a manager or supervisor - someone with the authority to make decisions. If your employer has clear policies and procedures in place to report harassment, be sure to follow them. Register your complaint in writing. Get an acknowledgement from your supervisor or employer that they received your complaint. And keep a copy of your complaint and the acknowledgement of receipt for your records.
Reporting the harassment to a governmental agency. In California, you may file a complaint with Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) online, by mail, or over the phone. The Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal anti-discrimination laws. Their website has information on filing complaints. Complaints filed with DFEH or EEOC are automatically cross-filed with the other agency.
Contact an experienced lawyer. If your employer is not responding to your complaint, the next best step you can take is to seek the counsel of an experienced California sexual harassment lawyer who can help protect your rights and hold your employer accountable.
Types of Sexual Harassment
There are two types of sexual harassment and both involve unwelcome sexual conduct. Regardless of which type of sexual harassment you have been subjected to, you have legal options.
Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment
This is when a workplace benefit is provided or promised in exchange for a sexual favor. This connection between the benefit or tangible employment action that is provided and the sexual favor could be express or implied. Some examples of such tangible benefits include getting hired, promoted, receiving a pay raise, getting a more favorable work schedule or receiving a favorable assignment.
Typically, supervisors have the authority to take such actions. So, quid pro quo sexual harassment almost always involves a supervisor and a subordinate. However, co-workers can also commit this type of sexual harassment. It is also important to remember that sexual harassment could be anything from kissing to inappropriate touching or other unwelcome sexual conduct. If you face adverse employment action because you rejected a supervisor's sexual harassment, that is strong evidence of quid pro quo sexual harassment.
Hostile Work Environment
A hostile work environment is said to exist when sexual harassment is so severe or so pervasive that it creates a workplace that is offensive, hostile or abusive. Some factors that determine if the harassment was pervasive include how frequently the conduct occurred; its severity; if it was physically threatening; and whether it interfered with the victim's work performance. There are a number of parties in the workplace who can create a hostile work environment including supervisors, coworkers, customers, clients and vendors. Isolated or minor incidents of a sexual nature do not constitute a hostile work environment.
What is Considered Harassing Conduct?
Some types of conduct are clearly and obviously sexual harassment such as sexual assault, unwanted kissing, touching of breasts or genitals, showing or sharing pornography, request of sexual favors and making sexually explicit comments. There is no question that these overt incidents still occur in workplaces. However, there are subtler forms of sexual harassment, which are still severe enough to create a hostile work environment for employees. Such behavior might include:
- Compliments of your appearance that can make you uncomfortable.
- Asking questions about your love life or sex life.
- Circulating sexually suggestive photographs or videos in the workplace.
- Making sexual jokes or sending sexually suggestive emails or text messages.
- Repeated hugs or other types of unwanted or inappropriate touching.
- Spreading rumors of a sexual nature about employees.
In order to qualify as sexual harassment that creates a hostile work environment, the conduct must be offensive not only to the employee, but also to a reasonable person who is placed in the same circumstances.
Fear of Retaliation or Repercussions
If you feel uncomfortable about sexually harassing behavior in the workplace, but if you worry that speaking up will result in retaliation, this is a clear indication of harassment. The type of retaliation you fear may range from being excluded or disrespected in the workplace to worrying about being demoted or even terminated from your job. For example, if you spoke up against someone making a sexual joke and are criticized for not being able to take a joke or not having a sense of humor, you may feel like you complaints will go unheeded. This type of dismissive behavior is a clear indication that you are enduring sexual harassment and a hostile work environment.
How to Prove Harassment in the Workplace
The most powerful way to prove harassment in the workplace is to show evidence that you endured unwanted sexual advances. This type of harassment can be proven with evidence such as emails, texts, direct messages and testimony from coworkers. In such cases, documenting every interaction – whether it is verbal or written -- is crucial.
If you have complained about the harassment to your supervisor and/or your company's human resources department and if they have been unresponsive, it is unlikely that the harassment will stop. In such a difficult scenario, be sure to keep a diary of what is occurring.
Include details such as dates, times and witnesses. Note down who was involved and exactly what happened. If any of the harassment was done via emails, text messages or voicemails, make sure you preserve them. Any such evidence must be saved in a location outside of your work. Keep them in your personal computer or at home so you have access and control over them at all times. If you are a victim of sexual assault, it is important that you report the incident to local law enforcement authorities right away so they can launch a criminal investigation.
It is possible to prove sexual harassment through evidence of a hostile work environment. Examples of such harassment include lewd comments or jokes, offensive graffiti or showing pornographic material in the workplace. If an employer knows about such pervasive behavior, but takes no action to stop it, they are creating a hostile work environment for employees.
Ever found yourself asking the troubling question, "am I being sexually harassed at work?" It's like a thorn that pierces your sense of security and comfort. Navigating this kind of precarious predicament, which should be a secure atmosphere, can be extremely difficult - almost like walking on thin ice.
You're not alone. Millions grapple with these hushed whispers daily, trying to distinguish between harmless banter and unlawful harassment. Navigating this labyrinth isn't easy but we're here for you every step of the way.
In this piece, we'll unmask hostile work environments and quid pro quo scenarios; shed light on recognizing signs of sexual harassment; discuss laws protecting employees' rights; guide you through reporting procedures and handling legal claims if necessary.
Legal Framework for Sexual Harassment
The laws governing sexual harassment are quite extensive. The federal law, the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits this behavior and holds employers responsible for addressing it.
But what does Title VII really say? Unwelcome advances or conduct of a sexual nature which adversely affects work performance and creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment is prohibited by Title VII. So whether you're dealing with quid pro quo situations where job benefits hinge on submitting to unwanted advances, or your day-to-day office life has become a gauntlet due to lewd jokes and inappropriate comments—it's all covered under Title VII.
State regulations offer extra safeguards against harassment in the workplace. For instance, in California we have something called the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This law makes sure employees don't feel threatened because someone can't keep their hands—or their crude comments—to themselves.
Federal versus State Law: Who Wins?
In case you're wondering who wins when state laws clash with federal ones—the answer is YOU. You see, if there's ever any conflict between these two sets of rules regarding your rights as an employee subjected to sexually harassing behavior at work - just remember this rule-of-thumb: whichever law gives more protection will apply.
EEOC & Employer Responsibilities
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces these laws and provides a checklist to help employers prevent workplace sexual harassment. Employers are obliged to take action once they know about the issue, so don't be afraid to speak up.
Your boss should have procedures in place for dealing with complaints effectively and promptly—plus policies that prohibit retaliation against those who come forward. After all, we're talking about your rights here.
They need to ensure a safe, respectful work environment. It's not just about following the law; it's also about valuing their employees' dignity and well-being. If you're facing such issues at work, don't stay silent - speak up for your rights.
Reporting and Addressing Sexual Harassment
If experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, reporting it is the primary step to take; remember that you are protected by rights. The procedure can be daunting but remember, you have rights.
Reporting Procedures
The process starts by alerting your supervisor or human resources department about the issue. It's crucial to provide a comprehensive description of the incident.
Your company should take immediate action once they receive your complaint. This could involve launching an investigation into your allegations.
You might also consider filing legal claims. But before that, make sure you've documented all instances of harassment for future reference. Having concrete evidence will strengthen your case against the perpetrator.
A critical aspect in reporting workplace sexual harassment is understanding its impact on victims' lives - mental stress and anxiety are major reasons why these incidents often go unreported. Creating a work environment that promotes safety and respect is essential for preventing workplace sexual harassment.
To prevent workplace sexual harassment from happening again, employers must enforce strict policies that condemn such behaviors and provide necessary training programs for their employees so they know how unacceptable this kind of conduct is. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides excellent resources on preventing workplace misconduct which every employer should utilize as part of their strategy to create a safer workspace.
Understanding Your Rights
Federal and state laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, are in place to protect you from workplace sexual harassment. The clock starts ticking on filing complaints or lawsuits when the incident occurs. Time limits vary depending on your chosen law.
The EEOC, a federal body responsible for upholding these laws, provides guidance to employers and employees alike. If you're facing unwelcome sexual advances at work, knowing your rights under these regulations can be a game-changer.
Your employer has legal obligations too - they must take steps to prevent workplace sexual harassment and respond promptly if it does occur. If not handled properly by them, it could lead to severe consequences like hefty fines or even business closure.
Know Your Legal Protections
The civil rights law offers broad protections against discrimination based on sex – which includes sexual harassment cases where one's gender identity or sexual orientation is involved. No matter what some might think, everyone deserves respect in their work environment.
Employment laws give clear guidelines about how companies should handle such issues: zero tolerance for hostile behaviors of any kind; swift action towards reported incidents; confidential handling of victims' claims etcetera. Always remember - You have every right to feel safe at your job.
Navigating Through Complex Laws
Laws may seem complex but don't let this deter you. Many resources offer help understanding employment opportunity commission rules. Their detailed resources make it easier to grasp what might seem like a legal maze.
Teaming up with a lawyer can also be an effective strategy. We can guide you through the choices available and help ensure that your case is treated fairly.
Dealing with sexual harassment at work is tough, but remember you're not alone. Protection comes from federal and state laws like Title VII. It's your employer's job to prevent these incidents and act fast if they happen - or else face big fines or even shutting down their business.
Taking Action Against Sexual Harassment
It's time to fight back against sexual harassment. You don't have to go through this alone; there are several measures you can take to address the issue.
Filing Legal Claims
If you've been sexually harassed at work, the law is on your side. Federal laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, offer protections to those who have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace based on their sex or gender identity. You may wish to pursue a legal claim.
The EEOC strives to ensure that all employees feel secure in their workplace by handling any claims of harassment based on sex or gender identity.
Reporting Your Experience
Speaking up about what happened can be tough but necessary. If someone has made unwanted sexual advances or created a work atmosphere hostile to your sexuality, it's important they face repercussions for their behavior.
You should report the incident directly with your employer first - if they fail to act adequately, then go ahead and contact government agencies like EEOC who will assist further in resolving the matter.
Gaining Support from Government Agencies
In some cases where employers don't provide sufficient support or remedy after an incident gets reported, getting help from external bodies becomes vital. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), dedicated entirely toward combating discrimination at workplaces including those of a sexual nature offers considerable aid in such situations.Note: Don't forget; retaliation is illegal under employment opportunity commission laws. This means even if someone tries intimidating or pressuring into dropping charges once filed- stand strong.
Steps to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment
To prevent workplace sexual harassment, it's essential for organizations and individuals alike to be proactive. Let's focus on some key strategies that can help create a safer work environment.
First off, training is crucial. It should cover the full spectrum of what constitutes sexual harassment - from verbal comments and jokes of a sexual nature to unwelcome physical contact or demands for sexual favors in exchange for job perks (also called quid pro quo). Training programs must clearly spell out company policies against such behavior and potential consequences if violated.
The importance of clear reporting procedures cannot be overstated. Employees need a secure way to express their worries without fear of retribution. Having effective reporting systems in place not only encourages victims to come forward but also serves as a strong deterrent for potential harassers.
Prompt Investigation
An organization needs an efficient system in place to investigate allegations promptly. The faster these complaints are addressed, the sooner inappropriate behaviors can be stopped, thus helping maintain trust among employees.
Action Against Offenders
Last but not least: action. No matter how senior or valuable an employee might be, tolerance towards any form of misconduct should never find its way into your organizational culture. Swift disciplinary measures send out a powerful message – everyone is equal when it comes to upholding respect and dignity at work.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Training: | Covers various forms including quid pro quo & hostile work environment. |
| Reporting Procedures: | A safe channel for employees to voice their concerns. |
| Prompt Investigation: | An efficient system in place to investigate allegations promptly. |
| Action Against Offenders: | We strictly enforce a no-tolerance policy towards any form of misconduct. |
FAQs in Relation to Am I Being Sexually Harassed at Work?
How do I know if I'm being sexually harassed at work?
If you're feeling uncomfortable because of unwelcome sexual comments, requests for favors, or offensive gestures by someone in your workplace, it might be sexual harassment.
What is a sexually hostile work environment?
A sexually hostile work environment involves unwanted and pervasive conduct that makes the workplace intimidating, threatening or abusive due to its sexual nature.
Getting Help From An Experienced Sexual Harassment Attorney
If you or a loved one are victims of sexual harassment at work, you may have a claim for legal action. Kingsley & Kingsley Lawyers have been helping victims just like you who have been harassed in the workplace. Let us help you with your sexual harassment settlement. To get started, simply fill out the contact form on this page to request a free one-on-one consultation.
Knowledge is power, and now you're armed with the understanding of what sexual harassment at work looks like. You've uncovered the two main types: hostile work environment and quid pro quo.
You've learned to spot signs that scream "am I being sexually harassed at work?" From unwelcome requests to demands for sexual favors - they all fall under this unfortunate umbrella.
We discussed your rights protected by federal law. We talked about reporting procedures, how to file legal claims if needed, and agencies ready to help you navigate these choppy waters.
For those who have been sexually harassed at work that want assistance from experienced attorneys, give Kingsley & Kingsley Lawyers a call. Our workplace sexual harassment attorneys have helped thousands of employees obtain compensation. Call today for your free consultation.
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