Take a Stand Against Verbal Sexual Harassment
If you’ve experienced verbal sexual harassment or propositions, you don’t have to keep silent. You don’t have to go along with it or risk losing valuable opportunities. Despite the law’s strong stance against all forms of sexual harassment and gender discrimination, degrading behaviors still flourish in colleges and workplaces across California.
The Law Offices of Stephen B. Morris, a San Diego-based law firm, will stand up for you. You deserve treatment with dignity and respect, and our attorneys will help you seek justice.
What Are Verbal Sexual Advances and Propositions?
These insulting and illegal behaviors happen in all work environments, from restaurants and hotels to financial firms and global corporations. It’s even prevalent on college campuses. The underlying message may be explicit or implied.
Sometimes, it’s an issue of work culture: maybe it’s gone on for so long that nobody takes action for fear of punishment. Other times it’s so unexpected or subtle that you may still be in shock. Regardless, you shouldn’t have to put up with it.
Examples of Verbal Sexual Advances and Propositions
How do you know if you’ve been a victim of sexual harassment? One of the most apparent types is quid pro quo — that is, pressure for sex in exchange for benefits. If you answer “yes” to any of the following, you may have a sexual harassment claim.
- Does a supervisor offer promotions, better grades, or other advantages in exchange for sexual favors?
- Were you treated differently, demoted, or denied advancement opportunities after turning down sexual advances?
- Did you lose your job or face suspension because you spoke against these practices?
- Does a co-worker persist in making advances even after you’ve asked them to stop?
What to Do if You Experience Verbal Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
If you experience verbal sexual harassment in the workplace, it is important to protect yourself and address the behavior. Here are some specific actions you can take:
- Document the incident(s)
- Report the behavior to higher-ups
- Communicate your discomfort
If all else fails, consult our San Diego sexual harassment attorneys for justice. We’ll help you speak out against the wrongful treatment and file a complaint with The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). You may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, reinstatement for wrongful termination, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some examples of verbal sexual harassment in the workplace include:
- Making sexual jokes or comments about an individual’s appearance
- Using sexual slurs or derogatory terms to refer to an individual
- Asking intrusive or inappropriate questions about an individual’s sexual history or preferences
- Making sexual comments about an individual’s body or clothing
- Using sexual gestures or displaying sexually suggestive materials in the workplace
Verbal sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment for the targeted individual and affect the morale and productivity of other employees who witness the behavior. It can also lead to problems like absenteeism, turnover, and decreased job satisfaction. If your employer is subjecting you or your coworkers to sexual harassment, your voice can speak out to become heard.
If you experience verbal sexual harassment in the workplace, it’s crucial to protect yourself and address the behavior. Some steps you can take include:
- Documenting the incident(s) and any witness statements
- Reporting the incident(s) to your supervisor, HR, or another designated point of contact
- Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or a professional counselor
- Seeking legal advice or assistance if the behavior persists or becomes physical
It is important to remember that you have the right to a safe and respectful work environment. You should not feel forced to tolerate verbal sexual harassment.