Workplace Sexual Harassment

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects employees from sexual harassment, which is an illegal form of sex discrimination. The Title applies to members of labor unions, as well as employment agencies and companies with 15 or more employees.

Sexual harassment occurs when unwanted physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature meets one of the following conditions:

• The employee must perform these actions to keep their job, get promoted, receive a good work assignment or any other benefit related to the job
• The behavior interferes with an employee's work performance or creates a hostile work environment

Examples of Sexual Harassment

Some common examples of sexual harassment in the workplace can include:

• Asking for sexual favors
• Leaving pornographic materials around the workplace
• Hugging, touching, patting
• Whistling and catcalls
• Using terms such as "babe" or "sweetheart"
• Spreading lies about your sex life
• Making sexual remarks or gestures

Employers are required to investigate sexual harassment claims made by employees. They must take appropriate steps to ensure the harassment stops and will not occur again.

Making a Complaint about Sexual Harassment

Employees who are victims of sexual harassment do not have to complain to the individual harassing them. However, you should report the harassment to your union or someone who can inform management of the incident. In addition, you should keep a written log of the harassment incidents and proof of its effect on your job performance. If your employer has procedure for filing complaints, you must use it.

Employees who have been sexually harassed can file an employment discrimination charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The claim must be filed within six months of the incident. Employees can contact their union steward for more information on how to file charges.