One reason that so many perpetrators get away with workplace sexual harassment is that so much goes unreported. People who suffer it might assume an employer won’t take it seriously, perhaps because there was no physical contact involved.
Sexual harassment without any physical contact can be just as devastating as that which includes it. And, some of the physical touching that does go on in workplaces might better be considered assault, rather than harassment.
Here are some ways that someone could sexually harass a person without ever touching them:
Saying things
“Would you like to go out with me?” might seem innocuous and it probably is when it stands as a one-off event. However, imagine your colleague says that to you every single day. Or your boss says it in a creepy tone when you try to talk to them about getting a promotion.
Another example: “Hey, Dana. You look great in that top.” You might take it as a compliment from most people. But let’s say you work as a restaurant server and a group of guys from the local office come in and insist on saying it to you all night long, perhaps emphasizing the word “great” and sniggering to themselves as you leave. You’d be entitled to feel that they were harassing you.
Posting or pasting things
Why is there a cutout from a pornographic magazine stuck near your desk with your face superimposed? Why is a group of colleagues gathered around one of their phones laughing and casting glances in your direction? Both could be sexual harassment.
Your employer has a duty to protect you from sexual harassment of all kinds, and from all directions – be it colleagues, bosses or clients. If they have not, then you may need to learn more about your legal options.
