Anyone can become a victim of sexual harassment no matter the person’s age, gender or type of employment. In fact, this unconscionable behavior — often directed by superiors at work against lower-level employees — continues to be pervasive throughout California workplaces even though it’s unlawful.
The #MeToo movement has done a lot during the last year to inspire those who have been sexually harassed to come forward; however, workers need to continue educating themselves on sexual harassment law and to continue building the courage to bring their stories out into the light.
Here are a few things that victims of sexual harassment should know:
- Nonemployees, vendors, customers, bosses, supervisors, coworkers and yourself can all become victims of job-related sexual harassment.
- Even those who are have not been directly targeted by sexual harassment could be victims of this behavior, and they could have the right to file a claim for damages.
- No one should ever welcome, encourage or even put up with the tiniest amount of sexualized conduct that makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Any gender could be victimized by this behavior and any gender can commit sexual harassment.
If you’re ready to put your foot down and stop sexual harassment at your workplace, you may need to speak up and file an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) claim against your employer. If you successfully present the evidence of the harassment you have endured, you may be able to receive helpful financial compensation to pay for the damages you’ve endured. This compensation could include money for lost income, money for emotional suffering and turmoil and other types of damages.