Sexual harassment has always been a serious global issue, long before Lin Farley coined the term in 1975. In the past, it was incredibly challenging to report sexual harassment incidents. However, thanks to various sexual harassment awareness and prevention movements such as #MeToo and #TimesUp, the world is slowly moving toward a future without sexual abuse.
However, although society has certainly made some improvements, placing more emphasis on the prevention and treatment of sexual harassment cases and the enforcement of sexual harassment laws, people still, unfortunately, experience unwarranted sexual comments and actions, particularly in the workplace.
With more than 6,500 sexual harassment claims filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in 2020, it seems that we still have a long way to go.
Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment happens anywhere, whether at school, home, on the street. However, the workplace, specifically, has proven to be a prime location for these unpleasant situations to happen because of the countless opportunities where a harasser can abuse their power over the victim.
Although we live in enlightened times, this doesn’t mean that sexual harassment at work would come to an abrupt stop. Sexual harassment is still very much a problem that we continue to work towards.
However, this type of incident isn’t easy to address, not just because of the prejudice and consequences victims would face when they report it, but also because not many people recognize that they have been sexually harassed.
When Sexual Harassment Isn’t as Obvious
When people hear sexual harassment, they think of inappropriate touching or suggestive comments. While these are considered sexual harassment, there are other forms of indecent acts that may not be as noticeable at first.
This is how abusers get away with their crime—since not everyone is well-informed of what constitutes sexual harassment, victims let it go and regard it as a part of everyday life as an employee. Well, obvious or not, sexual harassment is still sexual harassment!
Sexual harassment laws vary by state, so what constitutes sexual harassment will depend on where you live. In New York, sexual harassment at work may include sexualized behavior and unwelcome physical contact. Demanding physical contact from an employee in exchange for a promotion or job offer is also considered an offense.
If you’re unsure of what acts may be considered sexual harassment, read on below to find out the more subtle types of sexual harassment at work to watch out for:
- Staring or looking at someone’s body up and down
- Following a person around
- Telling inappropriate jokes or discussing one’s sex life
- Inappropriate and suggestive touching of a person’s body or clothing
- Purposefully standing in someone’s way
- Sending sexually suggestive emails or texts
- Repeated comments about an employee’s appearance
- Asking for sexual favors or repeatedly asking for dates despite being rejected
- Insulting an employee’s gender identity or sexual orientation
- Spreading rumors of sexual nature
Conclusion
We may have a long way to go in when it comes to addressing sexual harassment issues, but we’re getting there. If you think you’ve been sexually harassed at work, don’t hesitate to report the incident to your Human Resources department and work with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer to defend you and protect your rights.
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment in the workplace and don’t know what to do, our legal team at Ronemus & Vilensky can help. We are equipped to deal with sexual harassment laws in New York City and are available to help you get justice and navigate your way through the court system. Call us at 212-779-7070 for a free consultation.