To help both employees and employers better understand and recognize sexual harassment, employment law firm Strong Advocates has declared May Sexual Harassment Awareness Month.
“Unfortunately, sexual harassment continues to be a persistent problem in the workplace,” says Betsy Havens, Executive Director of Strong Advocates. “In the wake of the #MeToo movement, awareness of sexual harassment is at an all-time high but still it happens every day. We need significant change in order to eliminate this abuse of power. No one should be subjected to sexual harassment or assault at work.”
Sexual harassment typically takes two forms: hostile work environment and quid pro quo. For sexual harassment to create a hostile work environment, the abuse (comments, touching, advances etc.) must be either severe or persistent such that it creates a hostile environment. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when an employer conditions an employment benefit (for instance, a raise or promotion) upon acceptance or performance of a sexual act.
If someone feels they have been the victim of sexual harassment, Havens suggest taking a few steps to ensure their case is protected. First, it is essential to document any and all instances of harassment. Keep detailed notes and save any written communications with the harasser or about the harassment. Next, report the harassment to the appropriate person in the company, the HR department or a supervisor. Follow the company harassment policy if there is one available. Finally, if the harassment continues, speak to an employment law attorney who can determine the best next step.
One of the best defenses against sexual harassment is education. To learn more about sexual harassment in the work place and how it can be prevented, visit our website.