Sexual harassment in the workplace is not a new phenomenon. It has always been an issue. In light of the #Metoo movement, employees nationwide are more willing to publicly condemn their harassers and hold employers accountable for their inaction. As Valentine’s Day approaches, this blog will highlight various examples of sexual harassment in the workplace, and explore behaviors that, while inappropriate, do not rise to the level of sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. EEOC guidelines define sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- • Submission to such conduct is a term or condition of an individual’s employment.
- • Submission or rejection of the conduct is a basis for employment decisions.
- • Conduct of a sexual nature has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with work performance.
- • Conduct of a sexual nature creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.