Stopping Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advance that creates an uncomfortable or hostile work environment.  Sexual harassment in the workplace can compromise your job security or your ability to work.  It is a demeaning experience that can happen to anyone; it is a form of discrimination. 

There are many myths and misguided notions about sexual harassment.  Although women are most commonly the victims and men the harassers, sexual harassment can involve either sex in either role.  The harasser and victim can even be the same gender.  Sexual harassment does not have to occur between management and an employee; co-workers may also be harassers.  The harassment does not have to result in job loss, either.  Sexual harassment may be when one employee creates a hostile environment for another employee.

If you are being sexually harassed you have several options for putting a stop to it.  First, clearly indicate that the words or actions in question are not welcome.  This may be an uncomfortable conversation for you to start, but it is important for you to bring the situation out in the open.  Try the following:

• Directly confront the harasser.
• Be specific in identifying what behavior is unacceptable
• Make this behavior known to supervisors
• Do not respond to excuses or diversions
• Express strong, confident body language
• Keep your voice steady and calm

Should this confrontation not put an end to the abuse, seek outside assistance.  Try these steps:

• Make use of sexual harassment complaint resources at work
• File a complaint with a union if the harasser is a member
• File a complaint with the EEOC (U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission)
• File a claim under State Fair Employment Practices
• File a common law suit against the harasser for monetary compensation
• Make use of dual filing; register complaints with both federal and local agencies
• Report the incident to police anytime you are threatened or attacked

At any stage in this process, it is a good idea to consult with a lawyer.  In some cases a lawyer's visit with the harasser and/or employer is enough to remedy the conflict without a court visit.

It is very important for the victims to document everything related to the harassing activity.  Keep copies of any harassing materials.  Keep a detailed journal of the harassments, noting specific times, locations, witnesses and what actions were taken.  Obtain copies of work records, including evaluations, and keep them at home. 

Sexual harassment is demeaning and demoralizing and should not be accepted.  Become self-empowered and put an end to it.  Victims have the right to confront their harassers and file complaints with their employers -- or the legal system, if necessary.