Report Sexual Harrassment at Work
Victims of Impropriety at the Office Need Not Fear Reprisal
Once women endured rude or sexy remarks, touches, pats, and catcalls at work but now the Supreme Court underlines your right to report such behavior without fear.
In at least two 21st Century sexual harassment cases, the Supreme Court stood behind victims who came forward with complaints. Once, women feared seeking help because they risked their jobs. They worried about personal safety and about retaliation from abusers. Now, exercise your rights without fear.
In June 2006, after hearing the Burlington Northern & Santa Fe Railway Co. v. Sheila White case, the Court said victims need not fear reprisal.
What Caused the Suit?
Sheila White worked in a maintenance section of the company. She was the only female among male workers. Her supervisor maintained that women didn't belong in the railroad yard.
The story is not unfamiliar. White complained, then found herself doing menial tasks instead of her regular duties. Soon she was suspended without pay. The Sixth Circuit Court awarded her compensation for damages. The Supreme Court upheld the Circuit decision, unanimously.
Why It's Important to Women
Women work for the same reasons men work. To support themselves. To support their families. To enjoy a certain lifestyle. Women are primary victims of harassment in the workplace. So this legal stance offers two safeguards for job satisfaction: Safety and a measure of security.
A woman subjected to harassment can't perform her job as well as otherwise. If you don't work well, you don't advance. And harassment, of course, does not require physical contact. For example, coworkers hooting and wolf-whistling are guilty of harassment.
The court decision is a reaffirmation of Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Those rights include protection from discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin or religion.
What You Should Do
Nearly every company and school has written policies dealing with harassment. Familiarize yourself with such policy. If you find them inadequate or unclear, talk with your supervisor or advisor.
To make a complaint or to request policy review, follow the chain of command. Put your comments in writing in a professional manner. It's fine to talk in person, but take your written version with you. Keep copies. Record detail accurately and truthfully. Submit the complaint to the proper person and follow up to make sure they act. If you don't get satisfaction, you can consult an attorney specializing in harassment.
Also, make sure you’re never guilty of sexual innuendo or harassment. An environment that permits or encourages inappropriate comments or behavior isn't safe. If you're a supervisor, you have to take a visible stance against anything, as TV's Dr. Phil says, "...that even presents the appearance of impropriety."
