Thousands of people who experienced sexual harassment have come forward each year. Many haven’t reported themselves as victims, meaning the actual number of sexual harassment incidences is much higher.
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical action in the workplace.
Sexual harassment may be verbal, or it may occur in text message or email communications. Oftentimes, it can create an uncomfortable or unsafe work atmosphere that ultimately affects job performance. It may also have an affect on an employee’s mental health.
Though unwanted advances or commentary can come from any individual, it may come from an authority figure who is in a position of control. Sometimes, an employee may be hesitant to report one or more incidences of sexual harassment due to fear of retaliation.
Sexual harassment exists in every industry. It’s a serious, illegal, and endemic problem experienced by both men and women.
50%
the percentage of women across U.S., U.K., Germany, and France who experienced sexual harassment inside or outside the workplace (source)
12,860
the number of charges filed against employers for sexual harassment in the last year alone
16.6%
the percentage of sexual harassment charges filed by men in the last year
Type of Harassment
Quid pro quo: Expressed or implied demands for sexual favors. A latin phrase meaning “this for that,” quid pro quo harassment occurs as a forced exchange of benefits (promotion, pay increase) or avoidance of punishments (termination, demotion). Perpetrated by authority figures, such as managers, supervisors, or other individuals in positions of power.
Hostile work environment: Repeated or unwanted sexual advances and comments. Creates an intimidating, threatening, or offensive work environment that negatively affects a person’s ability to perform in the workplace. Perpetrated by any co-worker, peer, subordinate, vendor, customer or contractor.
Names and Titles
The name(s) and position(s) of the person(s) causing harassment is important in defining the type of harassment taking place. Identifying the role of the individual, whether it’s a peer or a superior, can be essential to assess the type of harassment claim.
Number of Incidents
Sexual harassment may occur once, or it may happen many times. The number of times harassment occurs and the timeline of events that have affected your ease and productivity in the workplace is key as we help you build your case.
Dates and Times
Sexual harassment cases have statutes of limitations. The dates and times harassment occurred (earliest and most recent instances) are especially important.
Defining Sexual Harassment
If you have experienced unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other harassment of a sexual nature, it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible.
Sexual harassment is separated into distinct categories with key differences. In preparation for opening a case, it’s important to have specific incident records to understand how the case will be carried out.
Sexual Harassment in the News
Wide discussion has recently followed a number of high profile workplace sexual harassment allegations. That discussion prompted TIME magazine to make The Silence-Breakers, those who have gone public about their experiences with workplace sexual harassment, its Person of the Year for 2017.