Sexual harassment comes in numerous forms, with all of them being unacceptable and unlawful in the workplace. There is often a power element to sexual harassment, which is why the perpetrator can often be a supervisor, team leader or boss.
Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a superior takes certain job-related actions based on sexual advances. Outlined below are a few more specific examples.
Promotions and opportunities based on inappropriate conduct
Supervisors tend to have the power to promote and reward employees. This is all well and good as long as the rewards are based on work-related behavior. However, if a supervisor requests sexual favors in exchange for a promotion, then this is quid pro quo sexual harassment.
Unfair disciplinary action based on your refusal to comply
Being placed in a situation as described above can be horrible, and you have every right to refuse to be treated this way. Unfortunately, the supervisor may not take kindly to you rejecting their inappropriate advances, and you may face unwarranted disciplinary action. Again, this is illegal. You cannot be penalized for refusing to be subjected to inappropriate behavior such as sexual harassment.
Workers across Kentucky have a right to work in a space that is free from hostility, discrimination and harassment. Promotions or disciplinary measures should only be based on an individual’s ability to do the job.
Harassment of a sexual nature is illegal, whether it comes from a fellow employee, a client, a supervisor or a boss. To assert your rights as an employee, it can benefit you greatly to obtain some legal guidance.
