Sexual harassment is a serious and unlawful issue that can disrupt workplace harmony and infringe on your rights as an employee. It goes beyond inappropriate comments and extends to unwanted advances, gestures, or actions that undermine the principles of mutual respect and safety in a professional environment.
Regardless of the form it takes, no one should feel unsafe, disrespected, or unheard at work. This guide will help you recognize the signs of sexual harassment, understand your workplace protections, and outline actionable steps you can take to address any instances with confidence.
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment in the workplace refers to unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile work environment or violates your dignity. It can happen between colleagues, managers, or even third parties, such as clients or contractors. Workplace sexual harassment often falls into the following categories:
- Quid Pro Quo: This involves an exchange where job benefits, promotions, or continued employment are conditioned on acceptance of unwanted sexual conduct.
- Hostile Work Environment: Any behavior that creates a toxic or oppressive workplace environment, such as lewd comments, inappropriate jokes, or sexually explicit material being shared.
Examples of Sexual Harassment May Include:
- Persistent, unwanted flirting or advances
- Sexual comments, jokes, or gestures aimed at you or others
- Display of explicit images or materials
- Sending inappropriate texts or emails
- Any physical contact without consent, such as touching, hugging, or brushing against someone
Sexual harassment doesn’t have to be overt to be damaging. If certain behaviors make you feel uncomfortable, disrespected, or unsafe, they may qualify as harassment.
Your Right to a Safe Workplace
Every employee has the right to work in a safe and respectful environment. Sexual harassment violates federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as state-specific protections. Employers are legally obligated to prevent and address harassment in the workplace.
If you are facing harassment, know that it is not your fault, and you do not have to tolerate such behavior. Protecting your dignity and rights begins with recognizing the situation for what it is.
What to Do If You Experience Sexual Harassment
If you suspect or know you are being sexually harassed, here are steps you can take to protect yourself and address the situation effectively.
1. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. Discomfort or unease is often a red flag. Do not dismiss inappropriate behavior as “just a joke” or “not a big deal.” Your feelings are valid.
2. Document the Behavior
Keeping accurate records can be an essential tool in addressing harassment. Write down the details of each incident, including dates, times, locations, and witnesses. Save emails, messages, or any other evidence that supports your account of the events.
3. Review Your Company’s Policy
Most workplaces have policies and procedures in place for reporting harassment. Familiarize yourself with these policies, which are often detailed in your employee handbook. Review the guidelines for filing a complaint and understand the resources available to you.
4. Speak Up
If you feel safe doing so, consider addressing the harasser directly. Sometimes, simply stating clearly, “I am not comfortable with this behavior—please stop,” can resolve the issue. However, this step is optional, and you should only take it if you feel secure in doing so.
5. Report the Harassment
Formal reporting is a crucial step in ensuring accountability. Report the behavior to your HR department, supervisor, or designated point of contact as outlined in your company’s policies. Be clear and specific in your description, and provide any supporting documentation.
If you fear retaliation or an unfavorable response, know that retaliating against someone who reports harassment is also illegal.
6. Seek External Support
If your workplace fails to address the harassment or retaliates in any way, you have the right to escalate the issue beyond the company. File a complaint with agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or consult a legal professional specializing in workplace rights to discuss further action.
Supporting a Colleague Who’s Being Harassed
If you observe a coworker being harassed, your support can make a huge difference. Offer to validate their feelings and encourage them to report the issue. If you’ve witnessed specific incidents, make it clear that you're willing to provide a statement or testimony to help their case.
Promoting a culture of accountability and solidarity can deter future acts of harassment in the workplace.
Building a Respectful Workplace
Preventing sexual harassment ultimately starts with cultivating a culture of respect and zero tolerance. Employers, employees, and organizational leaders have a shared responsibility to ensure that their workplace upholds these values.
Steps Employers Can Take Include:
- Establishing clear anti-harassment policies
- Providing regular employee training on recognizing and reporting harassment
- Encouraging open communication about workplace grievances
- Investigating all complaints thoroughly and promptly
Get Help From Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Des Moines
Dealing with sexual harassment can feel isolating. By recognizing inappropriate behaviors, asserting your rights, and utilizing internal or external support resources, you can take steps to protect yourself and your career.
Your dignity matters, and you deserve to work in an environment that values and respects you.
If you're unsure about your next steps or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to consult sexual harassment lawyers from Newkirk Zwagerman, P.L.C. who can guide you through the process. We serve employees in Iowa and Minnesota with compassionate, thorough, and proven legal representation. Together, we can work towards creating safer, more inclusive workplaces for everyone.
Contact us now at (515) 497-9409 for a complimentary initial consultation.