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In 2023, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed 50 lawsuits against workplace harassment. 29 of the claims used sex as a basis for the hostile work environment.

Sexual harassment is a form of workplace hostility. It exists within different work environments and situations. It may include unwelcome sexual advances, comments, jokes, or intimidation. 

A Culver City sexual harassment lawyer states that victims of sexual harassment have the right to several forms of recovery. Victims can claim damages for lost wages, missed job opportunities or benefits, medical or counseling costs, or costs related to any physical, emotional, or financial harm. 

Punitive damages can sometimes apply to your case and punish the responsible person. Keep your environment safe by understanding what harassment is.

Learn more about the ways to protect yourself against sexual harassment in this article.

Understanding Sexual Harassment: Definitions and Categories

Sexual harassment happens when you feel discomfort from any unwanted sexual attention. It also includes filthy remarks, gestures, acts, or soliciting.

Harassment can be subtle and affect a person’s professional life and well-being. Harassment can be done by anyone, regardless of gender. 

A sexual abuse lawyer says gender-based discrimination can be a form of sexual harassment. Protect your rights by talking to a lawyer. Lawyers can prove harassment by collecting important details about the incident.

Types of Sexual Harassment: From Verbal to Physical

Verbal sexual harassment is composed of inappropriate jokes, risqué remarks or advances.  Nonverbal harassment encompasses behaviors such as displaying offensive material, leering, and making obscene gestures, which are all examples of this type of sexual harassment.  Physical harassment covers inappropriate touching, obstructing your way, or perhaps some physical intimidation. 

The output of employees can be directly influenced by sexual harassment. Raise the matter or seek help from HR or trusted colleagues.

Real-Life Examples of Sexual Harassment

There are many examples of sexual harassment in the workplace. A coworker who says inappropriate jokes is one example. These jokes often center on one’s appearance.

Your boss might send you obscene texts in between calls, which would violate professional boundaries.

A person could be subjected to unwanted advances at parties even after advertising a clear disinterest.

In the public setting, catcalls can turn into hostile remarks.

The examples above show the different ways sexual harassment supports the oppression of other people. Acts of sexual harassment affect your emotional well-being and make you feel less safe and secure.

Your Rights: Legal Protections Against Sexual Harassment

Knowing the legal frameworks against sexual harassment can help you protect yourself. It also allows you to recognize when someone makes an unwanted approach.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act is a federal law that makes sexual harassment at work illegal. This law legally obligates employers to give a safe and harassment-free workplace to all employees.

Many other states provide additional laws for protection. You have the right to report the harassment with no worry of being intimidated afterward.

Go to either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a relevant agency in your state if you encountered harassment.

Steps to Take if You Experience or Witness Harassment

It is stressful to witness or experience harassment firsthand. Knowing what to do in such situations can make an enormous difference.

Try to put it all down in writing as soon as possible. Make notes about the events with dates, times, the place, and witnesses who could testify. Such information could come in handy later on.

Then, put in a report about the harassment either with your supervisor or with the HR department. Or, if such is not an option for whatever reason, seek advice or support from a trusted colleague or friend. Advocacy groups nearby can also be of assistance.

If everything worsens or if nothing is done, brace yourself, as that might be the time to think about seeking action with legal help, such as filing a complaint with the EEOC.