Harassment Blog

Workplace Harassment: Understanding Your Rights and Taking Action

Every employee deserves to feel safe and respected. Harassment manifests itself in two types, hostile work environment and quid pro quo, that affects many individuals. Ryan Employment Law will ensure that you understand your rights and know how to take action if you face harassment.

What are the two types of Workplace Harassment?

HOSTILE WORK ENVIRONMENT

Hostile work environment harassment is unwelcome conduct based on race, color, religion, sex  (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, national origin, age (40 or older), or disability. The conduct  is illegal if it  is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive.

QUID PRO QUO

Quid pro quo harassment is a type of sexual harassment. While sexual harassment can manifest as a hostile work environment, sexual harassment, and only sexual harassment. can emerge as quid pro quo harassment. Quid pro quo is a this for that exchange. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a decision maker who fires, hires, or promotes employees makes an employment decision conditional on whether the employee performs a sexual favor.

What are the different forms of Harassment at Work?

Harassment can take many forms, including:

  • Verbal: Insults, slurs, or derogatory comments.

  • Physical: Unwanted touching or physical intimidation.

  • Visual: Offensive posters, emails, or social media posts.

  • Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.

How does someone Recognize Harassment?

Harassment in its early stages can start off subtle. Look out for:

  • Repeated offensive jokes or comments.

  • Unwanted touching or physical interactions.

  • Hostility or intimidation by a colleague or supervisor.

  • Retaliation for reporting harassment.

What Laws Protect against Harassment?

Different laws protect against harassment:

  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects against harassment based on disability.

  • Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Covers harassment based on age for workers 40 and older.

  • Kentucky Laws: The Kentucky Civil Rights Act (KCRA) provides the same protections as federal laws.

What to do if You Are Harassed?

If you face harassment, it's essential to take immediate action:

  1. Document Incidents: Keep detailed records of all harassment incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses. KEEP A PAPER TRAIL!

  2. Report the Harassment: Notify your employer or HR department. Many organizations have specific procedures for handling harassment complaints. Once the employer is on notice of the harassment, the employer has a duty to make the harassment stop.

  3. File a Complaint: If internal reporting doesn't resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Kentucky Human Rights Commission.

  4. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with Ryan Employment Law to discuss your situation  and explore  your options.

What solutions does an Employee have for Workplace Harassment?

Employees who suffer workplace harassment may have remedies, such as:

  • Reinstatement: If you were wrongfully terminated and returning to work is a viable option.

  • Compensation: For lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.

  • Policy Changes: Employers may be required to create policies to prevent future harassment.

Conclusion

Harassment can slowly develop into a big problem in the workplace. If you’re facing such behavior, know that you have the  right to a safe, respectful work environment. By knowing what  rights you have and taking action, you can protect yourself and  create a healthier workplace for everyone.

For personalized advice and representation, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ryan Employment Law.