Sexual harassment in the workplace unfortunately happens each and every day across the United States of America. It is important to know and understand your rights as an employee of either a small business or a large corporation. Unwanted or unnecessary advances are not welcome, as you only wish to do you job honestly and completely. So how is sexual harassment defined, and what constitutes evidence for a possible legal sexual harassment claim?
Sexual harassment, with respects a person’s employment, is formally defined as a type of sexual discrimination within the workplace. It can also be defined by using a strong list of adjectives and verbs including that of bullying, inappropriate, assault, annoying or unwelcome. In such terms sexual harassment is unwelcome physical, verbal or visual conduct (of a sexual nature) that can affect the working conditions and/or performance of an individual, making for a hostile and uncomfortable work environment.
There are several examples of the different types of harassment that may be of a sexual nature, falling within verbal, visual and physical categories. Some examples may include but are not limited to:
Visual Harassment of a Sexual Nature:
These may include that of screen savers or emails received at work that are sexual and inappropriate. It can also include that of explicit photographs, posters, written or typed letters, etc.
Physical Harassment of a Sexual Nature:
Physical harassment in the work place is the most common of all sexual harassment claims. This may include derogatory expressions, looks, gestures, advances or requests. Or, it may include assault, rape, inappropriate touching, patting, stroking, hugging or kissing. Even wrongful touching of another co-worker’s clothing, hair or personal belongings can be seen as an unwelcome physical advance.
Verbal Harassment of a Sexual Nature:
This is another common type of sexual discrimination that brings individuals to file legal suits against another person or entity. Verbal harassment may include that of inappropriate jokes (sexual jokes), commentary regarding another’s clothing, body or image. Even that of repetitively asking another to go on dates, for sexual favors or spreading rumors regarding one’s sexual life can be an act of harassment as per the courts.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a very serious offense, that is illegal in the United States of America. If you or someone you know is currently suffering from sexual harassment in their work environment, or if you have questions regarding an uncomfortable situation that occurred in your office, speak to a professional. A Brownsville employment law attorney can answer all of your questions regarding the possibility of a legal suit, and will assist you throughout the entire process. It is your right to be a part of a healthy and non-discriminatory or harassing work environment.
Jeff Davis is the Owner of the Davis law firm and a highly experienced Brownsville employment law attorney. To find out more information about a Brownsville employment lawyer, please visit www.jeffdavislawfirm.com.