Facing sexual harassment at your workplace can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s unwanted advances, inappropriate comments or other forms of sexual harassment, you do not have to stay silent or endure such treatment.
As a victim, it helps to understand that the law protects you against sexual harassment at your job, and there are steps you can take to assert your rights. Here is what you need to do.
Document everything
Start by keeping a detailed record of every incident. Note the dates, times, locations, what was said or done and who was involved. Gather any supporting evidence like text messages, emails or witness statements. This will help strengthen your case when taking further action.
Report the harassment
Follow your workplace’s policies and procedures for handling harassment complaints. In most cases, you should inform your immediate supervisor, human resources department or another designated individual within your company.
Filing a formal written complaint informs your employer of the matter and allows them to address it. Remember to keep a copy for your records and monitor how the situation is handled. If the harassment continues or you experience retaliation because of your complaint, document these incidents as well.
Understand your legal rights and options
Your employer is legally obligated to maintain a safe work environment. You can escalate your complaint to regulatory bodies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (KCHR) if the harassment persists or you face retaliation. You can even sue your employer.
Seeking qualified legal guidance if you feel overwhelmed or are unsure about what to do can provide invaluable support when navigating such situations, protect your interests and help you get justice.