Sexual harassment remains a persistent problem in many workplaces. It can make employees feel unsafe, humiliated, and powerless. But you don’t have to accept it. Understanding what constitutes harassment, knowing how to respond, and asserting your rights can help you protect yourself and others.
Here’s how to recognize, document, and fight back against workplace sexual harassment.
What Is Workplace Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment or affects employment decisions. It includes:
- Quid Pro Quo: When job benefits (like promotions or raises) are conditioned on sexual favors.
- Hostile Work Environment: When severe or pervasive behavior makes the workplace intimidating, hostile, or abusive.
Examples of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can be obvious or subtle. Examples include:
- Unwanted touching, hugging, or kissing
- Sexual jokes or comments
- Sharing sexual images or videos
- Repeated requests for dates despite refusals
- Comments about appearance or clothing
- Threatening job consequences for refusing sexual advances
Recognizing the Signs
Sometimes it’s clear you’re experiencing harassment, but other times it can be subtle or even normalized in toxic workplaces. Warning signs include:
- Feeling uncomfortable, unsafe, or degraded
- Noticing a pattern of sexual jokes or comments
- Being singled out for sexual attention
- Feeling you must tolerate behavior to keep your job
Your Rights Under the Law
Both federal and California law prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. Employees are protected regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. Employers have a legal duty to:
- Provide a harassment-free workplace
- Promptly investigate complaints
- Take corrective action to stop harassment
Steps to Combat Sexual Harassment
If you’re experiencing harassment, you have options.
1. Tell the Harasser to Stop (If Safe)
Sometimes making it clear that the behavior is unwelcome will stop it. This isn’t required, especially if you fear retaliation or confrontation.
Example:
- “Please don’t make comments about my body.”
2. Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of:
- Dates and times of incidents
- What was said or done
- Who was present or witnessed it
- Any responses from management or HR
3. Review Your Employer’s Policy
Most workplaces have written anti-harassment policies explaining how to file complaints. Review your employee handbook or company policies.
4. Report the Harassment
- Report the behavior to your supervisor, HR, or the designated contact.
- Put your complaint in writing if possible.
- Keep copies of any communications.
5. File a Government Complaint
If your employer doesn’t act or the harassment continues, you can file a complaint with:
- The California Civil Rights Department (CRD)
- The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
These agencies can investigate and may issue you a “right to sue” letter for court.
Retaliation Is Illegal
Many employees fear reporting harassment because they worry about losing their job or facing other consequences. But retaliation for reporting harassment is illegal. Examples of retaliation include:
- Firing or demotion
- Reduced hours or pay
- Hostile treatment from management
- Being denied promotions or assignments
If you experience retaliation, you can bring a separate legal claim.
How PLBH Can Help
At PLBH, we’re dedicated to standing up for employees who’ve experienced sexual harassment. We can help you:
- Understand your legal rights and options
- Navigate internal complaint procedures
- File charges with the EEOC or CRD
- Pursue compensation through settlement or litigation
Our team understands the emotional toll of harassment and will handle your case with care and commitment.
Take Action Today
You don’t have to endure sexual harassment alone. Call PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today for a confidential consultation and get the support you need to fight back and protect your rights.