Table of contents:
- What should be done if you experience sexual harassment?
- 1. Speak openly
- 2. Tell the offender to stop
- 3. Look for policies
- 4. Write it down
- 5. Documenting harassing behavior
- 6. Proceed to court
Sexual harassment often leaves victims feeling helpless. This case often occurs in public places, especially in the workplace. Many victims even said that there was nothing he could do about the harassment. So, they usually just try to calm down and tolerate the event. In fact, there are many actions that victims can take to stop the problem, including informal actions at the workplace and formal steps, such as filing a lawsuit against the parties responsible.
What should be done if you experience sexual harassment?
1. Speak openly
In many cases of sexual harassment, especially those involving the work environment, the sexual harasser is usually not aware that their behavior is offensive. If you are a victim of harassment, the first step to take is to let the guilty party know that you found their behavior offensive. In most cases this can solve the problem. If this doesn't solve the problem, then at least the offender will know that you find his behavior very disturbing.
2. Tell the offender to stop
You can try to tell the offender to stop, even though this may be difficult for you. Make it clear that you want the offender to stop sexually harassing you. This is also an especially important step if you later decide to take more formal action against the harasser.
If the offender ignores your verbal request to stop, or if you feel uncomfortable seeing the offender face to face, write a short letter stating that their behavior offended you. If you are worried about personal safety or fear that the perpetrator will behave in a worse manner, then report it to your supervisor immediately.
3. Look for policies
Check employee manuals, written policies, etc. for sexual harassment policies. Then follow the steps listed in the policy. Next, report it to the person designated as your boss to receive complaints of sexual harassment. If they don't fix it, or if the person designated is the harasser, then go to the next person designated.
4. Write it down
Even if the policy says to call or meet someone, always put your complaint in writing. Describe in detail the sexual comments, sexual acts, pornography, inappropriate jokes or emails, and anything that is experienced or witnessed by you, which shows the difference in treatment of men towards women or vice versa. Many employees report hostile environments, intimidation or harassment without saying it is gender based. By reporting like that, you will not be protected from retaliation. So, the best way is to write it down in detail.
5. Documenting harassing behavior
It's important to document what happened to you, and what you did to try to stop it. You must have sufficient evidence to be able to report it to a company investigator, government agency, or court. Start by gathering as much detail as possible about the harassment. Make sure to save any abusive letters, photos, cards, or messages you receive.
6. Proceed to court
If a government agency issues a warrant, you can bring a civil suit for any injuries you sustained as a result of sexual harassment. You don't need to show physical injuries. The most common injuries in sexual harassment cases are emotional ones suffered by the victim.
If your harassment case is successfully handled by a court, you may have remedies that include:
- Re-placement, if you lose your job.
- Refunds, if you lose money or are not given a raise.
- Company requirements for implementing policies or training to stop harassment.
However, besides that you will also get some disadvantages, such as:
- Lost benefits.
- The cost of emotional distress.
- The number of costs that must be incurred, such as attorney and court fees.
