Every day in businesses, shops and companies across California, people silently suffer from sexual harassment. These victims are young or mature and they are female or male. There exists no picture or poster child of the typical sexual harassment victim because they can be anyone.
Most sexual harassment victims in Huntington Beach have no idea how to stop the behaviors, much less hold the harassers to account. We wish every victim could know that you do not have to accept sexual harassment. There are laws at the state and federal levels that can help you.
What is quid pro quo (this-for-that) sexual harassment?
California law recognizes that quid pro quo sexual harassment is a disturbing problem. It occurs when a business owner or someone with authority (managers, supervisors, etc.) offers you something in exchange for sexual favors. For example, a manager offers to promote you and give you a pay raise if you have sex with them.
What is hostile work environment harassment?
The main difference between this type of harassment and quid pro quo is that anyone can be the harasser. Co-workers, supervisors, even company vendors may engage in debilitating sexual harassment. Often, these unwanted behaviors are pervasive and disturbing enough to affect victims during and after work hours. Unfortunately, it is harder to pin down this form of harassment, but some examples include:
- Unwanted touching
- Repeated requests for dates or sexual contact
- Frequent lewd remarks, comments or jokes
- Work areas are “decorated” with obscene or graphic images.
If you are suffering from any form of workplace sexual harassment in California, it serves your best interests to learn what is prohibited and how to end the harassment. Experience guidance and information can help you decide your next steps.