Workplace Sexual Harassment: Was I Sexually Harassed at Work?
Workplace sexual harassment is a pervasive problem that not only violates federal law but that also causes real harm to victims and companies. In fact, according to the latest statistics, at least 15 new workplace sexual harassment cases are filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) every day — and roughly 40% of workers will be subjected to workplace sexual harassment at some point in their careers.
As harrowing as that may be, the more you know about your rights and how to fight workplace sexual harassment, the better. That’s what can empower you to take the right action if or when you are ever the target of workplace sexual harassment.
With that in mind — and in honor of April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) — here’s a closer look at:
- What Is Workplace Sexual Harassment?
- What to Do If You Suspect Workplace Sexual Harassment: 4 Steps
- How to Get Help from Top Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyers
If you need answers now about a potential workplace sexual harassment case, don’t hesitate to contact The Spiggle Law Firm for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation.
What Is Workplace Sexual Harassment?
Workplace sexual harassment is defined as any unwanted requests, advances, or interactions that are sexual in nature and that are made in an occupational setting or an educational environment. By federal law, workplace sexual harassment is characterized by impact, not intent.
That means that sexual harassment at work can occur:
- Regardless of whether the harasser has intended for their actions to be sexual or harassing in nature.
- As long as the actions are unwelcome with the impact of being sexually harassing
Consequently, workplace sexual harassment tends to arise with unwanted behaviors like (and not necessarily limited to):
- Unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors
- Sexual comments, jokes, and inappropriate statements
- Sexually explicit emails or texts (i.e., digital messages)
- Displaying crude, offensive, or lewd images or objects
- Lewd gestures and leering
- Inappropriate physical touching
With workplace sexual harassment, here are a few more key points to know:
- Age and gender are not factors: Adults of any age and any gender can be the harassers or victims in workplace sexual harassment cases. Similarly, harassers and victims can be of the same gender.
- Workplace sexual harassment is grossly underreported: Experts estimate as many as 85% of the victims of workplace sexual harassment never file reports. While some may not be aware of their reporting options, others forego reporting to avoid potential retaliation.
What to Do If You Suspect Workplace Sexual Harassment: 4 Steps
If you or someone you know has been subjected to workplace sexual harassment, you can take action to document what’s happening, collect potential evidence, and safeguard your rights ASAP. To do that, take as many of the following steps as possible:
- Start documenting the harassment: Take notes and pictures. Save emails. Ask possible witnesses to email you statements about what they saw, heard, or otherwise witnessed. As you document these facts, be sure to note the dates, times, and anyone else around. Your details could be incredibly helpful later.
- Review your company’s policies: If your company handbook has information on how to report workplace sexual harassment, get up to speed with these policies. If not, ask human resources about any protocols for these incidents.
- Report the incident through the proper company channels: Follow any reporting protocols established by your company, as long as they don’t call for you to report to the individual(s) who may be your harasser(s). If your employer provides you with any documents as or after you file this report, keep everything they give you.
- Consult a workplace sexual harassment attorney: These cases are often complex and contentious, and victims can feel like they’re all alone, fighting lawyered-up companies that may have deep pockets and strong reasons to silence victims. With an attorney in your corner, you can be confident that your rights will be protected and that you’ll have the resources to pursue all available legal remedies.
How to Get Help from Top Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyers
Don’t suffer in silence or rely on your employer to do the right thing. Businesses facing workplace sexual harassment cases are often focused on protecting their interests, and that may not align with what’s best for you.
To truly safeguard your rights and move forward on stronger footing, it’s in your best interests to consult an experienced workplace sexual harassment attorney at The Spiggle Law Firm.
We have counseled clients through all types of workplace sexual harassment cases, helping them fight for what’s right and secure the justice and compensation they deserve. We are ready to do the same for you. Simply contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation to find out more.
Call (202) 643-5974 or email us for a free, confidential consultation and more answers about a potential workplace sexual harassment claim.
