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SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is prohibited by federal law in all U.S. workplaces with over fifteen employees. Many state laws further reduce the size of companies that must adhere to sexual harassment regulations. Suits for damages resulted from sexual harassment may, and often are, brought against employers. While your company is liable only for the managerial behavior regarding discrimination practice, in the case of sexual harassment you are responsible for the actions of all employees.

Have you been a victim of sexual harassment or sexual discrimination in the workplace?
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What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment can take two forms: Quid Pro Quo and Hostile Environment.

Quid Pro Quo: A readily identifiable and common form of sexual harassment is what is referred to as "quid-pro-quo" harassment, which translated means "this for that." Typically, this form of harassment consists of a supervisor who directly or indirectly offers or denies employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors. What makes "quid-pro-quo" harassment unique is the nature of the scenario. By definition, the harasser is a supervisor or a person with authority who offers a subordinate favorable employment conditions in exchange for sexual favors. Moreover, the harasser does not need to make explicit sexual requests for the action to be regarded as sexual harassment. It is enough if a victim has a reasonable fear that a harasser's unwelcome advances, if rejected, will undermine his/her career.

Hostile Enviornment: A hostile work environment is one created by sexual behavior in the workplace that is offensive, hostile, and/or intimidating and adversely affects an employee's ability to do his/her job. Examples may include pervasive sexual comments, pin-up posters, and jokes that continue though employees may have indicated that those behaviors are unwelcome. A hostile environment can exist even though an employee may not be the direct recipient of sexually abusive behavior.

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Some states further refine this definition, and those state laws must be adhered to in addition to the federal laws. READ MORE

• Sexual Harassment Fact vs. Myth - explanation and simplification of some case law.

• Facts About Sexual Harassment - from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Includes the text of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

• Sexual Harassment and Rape Resources

• Sexual Harassment Resources - from the Feminist Majority Foundation. Includes national hotlines and information on what to do if you are being sexually harassed.