Harrassment and Discrimination

If you have experienced any unwanted verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, you are not alone. This behavior is considered sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is not your fault.

Sexual harassment is not about sex, it's about power. Such behavior is designed to humiliate and control. It's not only offensive - it's against the law.

Sexual harassment is illegal even if the harasser is not your boss or is not threatening that you will loose your job if you don not go along.

What the Law says:

• Sexual harassment is unwanted, repeated sexual attention at work.
• Sexual harassment is illegal if:
  1. Your job depends on your going along with this behavior, or
  2. The conditions of your employment (such as pay, promotion, vacation) depend on your going along with this behavior, or
  3. The harassment creates a hostile or offensive work environment which interferes with your ability to do your job.

What You Can Do:

Here are some steps to take if you are being sexually harassed on the job:

1. Say no clearly.
2. Document the harassment.
3. Get emotional support.
4. Document your work.
5. Look for witnesses and other victims.
6. Explore company channels.
7. File a complaint.
8. Consult an attorney.

^* Information supplied by 9to5 National Association of Working Women. For more information log on to www.9to5.org, call the 9to5 Job Survival Hotline at 800 522-0925 or email them at hotline9to5@igc.org.