What To Do If You’ve Been Sexually Harassed At Work

Sexual harassment is a pervasive and damaging problem that can occur in any workplace. It can take many forms, including unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Workplace sexual harassment can have a profound impact on both the victim and the organization, leading to decreased productivity, low morale, and legal liabilities.

Unfortunately, despite increased awareness and efforts to prevent workplace sexual harassment, it remains a prevalent problem in many workplaces. Studies have shown that up to one in three women experience sexual harassment at work, and the numbers are even higher for women of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

One of the challenges in addressing workplace sexual harassment is that it can take many different forms, from inappropriate comments or touching to more severe forms of assault or coercion. It can also be perpetrated by supervisors, co-workers, clients, or customers, making it difficult to identify and prevent.

Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and harassment-free workplace for their employees. This includes taking proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment, such as implementing policies and procedures that prohibit harassment, training employees on what constitutes sexual harassment and how to report it, and promptly investigating and addressing any complaints that are made.

Employees also have a responsibility to speak out if they experience or witness sexual harassment in the workplace. This can be a difficult and intimidating step to take, but it is crucial for ending the cycle of harassment and protecting oneself and others.

If you are experiencing workplace sexual harassment, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Document any incidents of harassment, including the date, time, location, and what was said or done.
• Report the harassment to your employer’s HR department or a supervisor. Make sure to follow any reporting procedures outlined in your company’s policies.
• If your employer does not take appropriate action to address the harassment, or if you feel uncomfortable reporting the harassment to your employer, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
• Seek support from friends, family, or a counselor. Sexual harassment can be emotionally traumatizing, and it is important to take care of yourself.

Workplace sexual harassment is a serious issue that can have lasting consequences for both the victim and the organization. It is important for employers to take proactive steps to prevent harassment and for employees to speak out if they experience or witness harassment. By working together, we can create safe and respectful workplaces for all.