Every day, more and more stories of sexual harassment are making headlines across the country. Whether it is a Hollywood actress coming forward about being sexually assaulted by a male colleague, or a female worker who has been continually harassed in the workplace, the message is clear – sexual harassment has no place in our society. While sexual harassment can happen to anyone at any age in any profession, there are steps that all victims can take in order to try to stop these incidents from happening in the future. If you are undergoing sexual harassment at the workplace, you better seek the guidance of an Employment Discrimination Lawyers In White Plains, NY, to know what necessary steps you should take.
Workplace harassment is a problem that needs to be taken seriously, and many companies have strict policies in place to protect their employees. If you feel like you’ve been sexually harassed at your workplace, there are steps you can take to make sure you’re protected, and these steps vary between industries and companies.
Let us see how to deal with sexual harassment in the workplace.
- You should have precise details about the harassment
It is essential to note all details, including time and place, of harassment to increase proof against the harasser. Moreover, you can also note down the name of witnesses who really have seen you being sexually harassed. Noting down every detail will help you be more specific about the incident and increase your potential to win over the harasser.
- Check your company’s sexual harassment policy
Sexual harassment policies have become an integral part of our work lives. They are designed to protect employees from unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. These policies protect both men and women, as well as parents and caregivers who bring their children to work. The first step in protecting yourself is understanding your company’s policy. Therefore, it is essential to check your company’s policy before moving against the harasser.
- Complaint to your HR supervisor
When a person is sexually harassed, it is their responsibility to report the harassment to their HR. The company should have a proper investigation of the complaint and provide protection from retaliation for the victim. They will need to be able to document any remarks or actions which constitute sexual harassment.
- If your company or HR is not standing with you or taking actions against the harasser, consult the case with an attorney
If your company or HR is not taking any actions to stop the harassment, you should consult with an attorney. Harassment is a form of discrimination, and the harasser may be breaking the law. In most cases, harassment violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act that prohibits employment discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, age, or national origin. The employer also has a duty to protect their employees from harassment by third parties.
