The world has progressed in terms of many things. However, it is a sad reality that workplace sexual harassment still prevails in society. Every individual has the right to feel safe in their workplace, and it is the employer’s duty to ensure that their work environment is safe.
If you have been sexually harassed at your job, you must be scared and have a lot of questions in mind. Even though many victims want to take action, they just do not know where to start. If that is the case with you, consult with a Charlotte sexual harassment lawyer to understand your options.
Sexual harassment in the workplace: FAQs
Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a sexual harassment claim?
No. Your employer in Charlotte cannot legally retaliate against you for filing or reporting a sexual harassment incident that took place in their own workplace. You are still protected under the same right even if you act as a witness for someone else’s sexual harassment claim. In general, your employer cannot act against you for taking action against injustice like sexual harassment.
Is sexual harassment only sex?
No. In fact, sexual harassment does not have to involve physical touch at all. Even if someone sends you obscene texts or images, they are alone enough to create a sexual harassment complaint. Any conduct that is sexual in nature and happens without your consent is sexual harassment. Some instances of non-physical sexual harassment may include:
- sexual advances,
- lewd remarks,
- pornographic pictures,
- repeated requests for dates
- or sexual jokes.
Is sexual harassment only men harassing women?
Absolutely not. Sexual harassment can happen to any person of any gender, whether they are men, women, trans or non-binary. Harassment can happen between people of the same sex. However, in same-sex harassment, the victim must prove that the harassment was based on his or her sex, not just sexual desire.
What does sexual harassment look like?
Sexual harassment can take place in various forms. Some of the common ones include:
- Physical acts of sexual assault.
- Unwanted touching or physical contact.
- Feeling pressured to engage with someone sexually.
- Unwanted sexually explicit photos, emails, or text messages.
- Requests for sexual favors.
- Unwelcome sexual advances.
- Discussing sexual relations/stories/fantasies.
I used to have a sexual relationship with a co-worker, but I broke it off. If they harass me now, can I bring a claim of sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is any sexual conduct that happens without your consent. If you have already broken up with them and told them not to contact you anymore, and they still do, it is sexual harassment. They cannot use their prior relationship with you as an excuse.
