What Can I Do If I’m Being Harassed at Work?

Question from Vivi, What Can I Do If I’m Being Harassed at Work?

Answer from AI:

If you believe you’re experiencing harassment at work, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to address the situation. Workplace harassment, whether based on sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information, is prohibited under various federal laws in the United States, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Here’s a general guide on how to navigate this challenging situation.

Understanding Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment includes unwelcome conduct that is based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. Harassment becomes unlawful when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment, or the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive.

Steps to Take If You’re Being Harassed

1. Document the Harassment: Keep a detailed record of the incidents, including dates, times, places, what was said or done, and any witnesses. This documentation can be crucial for any future actions you may take.
2. Review Your Employer’s Harassment Policy: Many employers have policies and procedures for handling harassment complaints. These are often found in the employee handbook or on the company’s intranet.
3. Report the Harassment: Follow your employer’s procedures for reporting harassment. This often involves reporting the behavior to your supervisor, human resources department, or a designated company official.
4. File a Complaint with the EEOC: If your employer does not address the harassment, or if the harassment continues, you may file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). There are time limits for filing a complaint, so it’s important to act promptly.

Legal Protections Against Harassment

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws that make it illegal to harass a person because of their protected characteristics. Under these laws, employers are required to take appropriate action to prevent and correct unlawful harassment. Furthermore, it’s illegal for employers to retaliate against you for opposing harassment or participating in a harassment investigation or lawsuit.

When to Seek Legal Advice

If you’re unsure about whether you’re experiencing unlawful harassment, or if you’ve reported harassment and it hasn’t been adequately addressed, it may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional. An attorney specializing in employment law can provide advice based on the specifics of your situation and help you understand your rights and options.

Additional Resources

• The EEOC’s Harassment Page offers detailed information on what constitutes harassment and how to file a complaint.
• Many states have agencies that enforce laws prohibiting harassment in the workplace, which may offer additional protections beyond federal laws.

Remember: Every situation is unique, and this guide is intended to provide general information. It’s important to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Taking prompt and appropriate action is crucial in addressing workplace harassment.