My Co-Workers Joke That My Job is for Those of the Opposite Sex. Is this Considered Sexual Harassment?
Over the past few years, society has attempted to become more accepting of people and their choices. During this reform, there have been many human rights laws passed that protect people from various forms of harassment and discrimination. In the workplace, there are many forms of sexual harassment that are considered unacceptable. Your company has policies that outline what an employee experiencing harassment should do, and that includes people experiencing sexual intimidation.
What Is Sexual Intimidation?
Sexual intimidation is a form of sexual harassment where a victim is ridiculed based on their gender, their gender identity, or their sexual preference. This is an activity that is outlined in federal and many state human rights laws, which means that it is something about which an employee can file an official complaint.
A Harmless Joke
If your co-workers joke that your job should be done by someone of the opposite sex, then they could be psychologically undermining your personal confidence. As an act of sexual harassment, sexual intimidation can have many emotional and psychological effects that could affect your productivity at work and possibly your personal life as well.
If you are someone who takes pride in their work, then having others demean your position through sexual intimidation can have long-lasting effects on your psyche. There is a possibility that you might even question your own value to the company, despite the pride you have in your work.
What Should You Do?
Your first course of action should be to point out to your co-workers that you take pride in what you do and their comments are not appreciated. If your attempts to stop the sexual harassment directly do not work, then your next step would be to discuss your situation with your supervisor and/or the Human Resources Department.
If the harassment does not stop, then you should consult with an attorney.
If you feel overwhelmed by sexual intimidation in the workplace and are not sure what you should do, then we recommend that you contact our office immediately. Our compassionate sexual harassment attorneys will review your situation and let you know what options you have at combating sexual harassment.