Feeling uncomfortable or intimidated at work because of someone else’s behavior can be incredibly distressing. Many people wonder about what constitutes harassment and what their rights are in such situations. Let’s break it down in simple terms to help empower you with the knowledge you need to take action if you’re being harassed at work.
Understanding What Harassment Is
Workplace harassment isn’t just about outright offensive comments. It encompasses a broader range of unwelcome behavior. According to U.S. labor laws, workplace harassment is any unwelcome conduct based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. Harassment becomes unlawful when enduring it becomes a condition of continued employment, or it creates a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive.
Examples of Harassment
1. Verbal Abuse: Negative comments about your appearance, personal insults, or unwanted advances.2. Physical Harassment: Unwelcomed touching or mimicking.3. Visual Displays: Offensive posters, emails, texts, or images displayed in the workplace.4. Quid Pro Quo Harassment: A situation where submission to or rejection of conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions (e.g., promotions, raises).
Your Rights Under Federal Law
Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employees are protected from discrimination and harassment. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces these laws at the federal level. You have the right to work in an environment free of harassment and discrimination. This means that your employer must take steps to prevent and resolve workplace harassment incidents.
What Steps Can You Take?
1. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to take formal action.
2. Communicate: If you feel safe doing so, let the person responsible know that their behavior is unwelcome. Sometimes, people may not realize their actions are inappropriate.
3. Review Your Employee Handbook: Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies on handling harassment. Most organizations outline procedures for filing complaints.
4. Report the Harassment: Follow your company’s procedures to report harassment to your supervisor or HR department. If necessary, follow up in writing to ensure there’s a record of your complaint.
5. File a Complaint with the EEOC: If internal resolutions do not address the harassment, you can file a complaint with the EEOC. This must typically be done within 180 days from the incident of harassment.
Practical Tips
- Seek Support: Talk to trusted coworkers, friends, or family members. They can provide emotional support and sometimes accompany you in making a complaint.
- Legal Counsel: If workplace procedures don’t resolve your harassment issues, or you feel retaliation, consulting with an attorney who specializes in employment law can be helpful.
- Self-Care: Harassment can have emotional impacts, so it’s important to practice self-care. Consider talking to a therapist who can offer professional guidance and support.
The Employer’s Responsibility
Employers are responsible for preventing and correcting harassment in the workplace. They should provide regular training to employees about harassment awareness and prevention, have clear procedures for reporting and investigating complaints, and take prompt corrective actions when harassment is discovered.
Remember: You Are Not Alone
Harassment in the workplace is regrettably common, but knowing your rights and the steps you can take empowers you to act. Every employee deserves a safe and respectful working environment. Taking the time to understand your rights and the resources available to you can be the first step toward resolving difficult situations.
For those feeling impacted by workplace harassment, remember that solutions exist and support is available, both within your organization and through external resources like the EEOC. Stay informed, stand your ground, and above all, prioritize your well-being.
