Sexual Slurs. Pornography. Gestures. Taunts. Hazing. Threats.
Do I have your attention?
These are examples of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as behavior characterized by the making of unwelcome and inappropriate sexual remarks or physical advances in the workplace. Laws surrounding sexual harassment generally do not prohibit simple teasing, offhand comments or minor incidents.
But in the workplace, harassment may be considered illegal when it is frequent or severe, thereby creating a hostile work environment, or when it results in an adverse employment action (like demotion, firing or quitting).
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
If you need more guidance on sexual harassment, please contact me at leslie@turkelaw.com I am here to help!