Most people are aware that sexual harassment is a serious problem for women in the workplace. What many people don’t know is that sexual harassment is not just limited to women. Approximately one in five complaints filed with the EEOC come from men. That’s a staggering 17 percent, a rate that’s held steady over the past decade.
That statistic may be even higher if you take into account the men who are too embarrassed or ashamed to report sexual harassment at work. There is no shame in seeking legal action against an employer or coworker for sexual harassment, regardless of your gender. If you’ve been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, Rager Law Firm can help.
The lines of what is considered sexual harassment can sometimes be blurry. In order for inappropriate behavior to be considered sexual harassment, the perpetrated has to be made aware by the target of the harassment that they find the behavior offensive. This can include sharing nasty jokes, stories, or pictures at work. Sexual harassment doesn’t always involve propositioning someone for sexual favors, nor does it always center on sexual attraction. Sometimes sexual harassment is used as a means of asserting power or dominance over another. Sexual harassment may be used as a means to humiliate an employee or coworker. Many men are harassed in the workplace regarding their gender identity, or for not being overtly “masculine.” For instance, a male worker referring to another male employee as “princess” classifies as sexual harassment.
To break things down in simpler terms, the state of California defines sexual harassment as:
Despite popular misconception, sexual harassment is not always perpetrated by men. Women can also be the aggressors in incidents of workplace sexual harassment. Men often are subjected to sexual harassment by other male coworkers, too. Sexual harassment is a serious matter, one that should be reported right away. No one has the right to make you feel uncomfortable or threatened at your job. If you’ve been subjected to sexual harassment in your workplace, contact our team at Rager Law Firm right away. Remember, we’re here to help.