State and local law forbids any type of sexual harassment to occur within the work environment. Yet, what is considered sexual harassment is often confusing, and many times, victims do not know if what they are experiencing is, in fact, harassment or a violation of the law. The following are some examples of sexual harassment in the workplace that warrant you to take action from the Sacramento sexual harassment attorney at The Armstrong Law Firm.
What Conduct is Considered Inappropriate Conduct?
One form of sexual harassment in the workplace focuses on inappropriate conduct. This can include:
- Unwanted touching
- Kissing
- Touching of genitals or breasts
- Rape
- Slapping another person’s buttocks
- Uninvited massages
- Ogling
- Explicit comments made to others
- Sexually suggestive jesters
- Cornering someone
- Catcalling
Most of these types of sexual harassment examples seem obvious, but it is not always that clear. For example, any type of action in which a person is made to feel uncomfortable or intimidated by the other party can also be considered harassment. This includes comments made about a person’s appearance, discussing sex life in front of an employee, posting or sending nude photos of women or men from person to person, or making sexual jokes.
How to Know When It Is Sexual Harassment
In some situations, the sexual harassment occurs in a hostile work environment. For that to be considered, the actions taken must be offensive, but not just to the person who is receiving them. Rather, any person who hears them would reasonably feel they are being harassed. This makes it a bit difficult to prove that the harassment is occurring.
For example, if a manager comments on an employee’s appearance in passing, it may be considered harassment, but only if another person in the same situation feels the same. These types of limitations aim to reduce frivolous claims that hurt all victims of harassment.
To know if your situation is sexual harassment, reach out to an attorney who can offer guidance and support to you by listening to what occurred. Whether someone was leaving unwanted gifts for you, spreading rumors of a sexual nature around the office, or asking employees about their sex life, it is critical that you take steps to protect yourself.
Consider a Few More Rules
It is also important to note that sexist comments and actions, even if not directly sexual in nature, can be considered harassment in the work environment. Sexual harassment is not just meant for employers or managers. These types of incidents can occur in various areas of the work environment, including among customers or clients as well as other employees. If you feel as though you were impacted in any way, report this information to your attorney.
Remember, too, that there is no gender limitation here. Sexual harassment happens to men the same way as it happens to women and must be taken seriously in all cases.
If you are the victim of sexual harassment or you feel you may be, do not wait to seek out help from an attorney. Learn more about your rights by reaching out for support when you need it the most.