The workplace can be an intimidating environment. You are surrounded by colleagues with whom you must get along and possibly even make happy to succeed and advance. This mindset can create an environment where people are more likely to take advantage of others.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a terrible experience. It can make you feel violated and insecure at a place you need to go to regularly to get money to survive. No one should be forced to tolerate sexual harassment in any setting, let alone the workplace. If you recognize any of these signs of workplace sexual harassment, contact a California workplace sexual harassment lawyer who can assist you in fighting for your rights.
Five Signs of Sexual Harassment at Work
Sexual harassment can occur in numerous ways. Physical, verbal, and passive sexual harassment can all occur in the workplace.
You Are Being Subjected to Sexually Explicit Jokes or Images
Even if no one is actively sexualizing or pursuing you, sexual harassment can occur through jokes or comments about your sexual experience, sexuality, gender expression, or gender identity. This type of behavior can occur in person, online, over the phone, or through any other form of communication.
You Are Being Subjected to Unwelcome Physical Contact
Unwanted physical touch is a prevalent kind of inappropriate behavior in the workplace. If someone at work touches you in an uncomfortable manner, it could be considered sexual harassment. Rubbing shoulders, pushing up against someone, hugging, or showing physical affection are examples of physical contact that could be considered sexual and inappropriate. You have the right to feel safe at work and free from unwanted touching, even if the physical contact is portrayed as accidental or harmless.
You Are Being Treated Differently Because of Your Sex
Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination based on a person’s sex. If you are treated differently depending on whether you are a man or a woman, this is another indicator you are experiencing sexual harassment. For example, an employer may treat their employees differently depending on if they are a man or woman, which means that you and other employees may be mistreated because of your gender.
You Are Subjected to Unwanted Sexual Attention or Physical Contact
Sexually charged behavior unwanted by the recipient is one of the most visible indications of sexual harassment. It might be difficult to tell the difference between innocent and inappropriate behavior. If you constantly feel uncomfortable when they are near or speaking to you, and you believe the other person is aware of your discomfort, you are most likely experiencing harassment. Clients, coworkers, and employers kissing, embracing, squeezing, pinching, patting, or touching you are all examples of unwanted sexual contact.
You Are Afraid There Could Be Consequences for Speaking Up
If you are uncomfortable with someone’s behavior at work but are afraid of repercussions, you are likely being sexually harassed. The consequences could include being degraded or chastised and having a direct negative impact on your career, job stability, or upward mobility.
Contact a California Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Working is difficult enough without continuously worrying about someone else violating your rights or abusing you in any way. You are protected from workplace sexual harassment, and you have every right to sue your employer if it continues.
At Blackstone Law, our team has years of experience practicing employment law, so we know how to use the law to your advantage. For employment cases, we operate on a contingency basis because we think that passionate advocacy should be available to everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. If you have been the victim of workplace sexual harassment, we can assist you in receiving compensation for your suffering. To schedule your consultation, please call us at (310) 956-4054 or complete our contact form.