We all know – at least intellectually – that sexual harassment is not a reality that victims need to tolerate. The problem often isn’t whether there is a question about whether this form of unlawful mistreatment is acceptable but is, instead, what can be done when it occurs. No one should have to feel uneasy or unsafe at work as a result of the unlawful and unethical actions of another member of staff.
Weathering sexual harassment can leave you in a position where you feel like you’re unable to go to work. If someone is being inappropriate in the way they’re behaving around you or they are making sexual advances that make you uncomfortable, you don’t have to stand for it and you don’t have to let their poor judgment keep you from advancing in your career.
Laws are in place to protect you from harassment
If you have faced sexual harassment at work, you have the right to take action at both the state and federal levels. You can file a claim with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights under the Kentucky Civil Rights Act or you can file a lawsuit in court. At the federal level, a claim can be made with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Once you’ve worked with an attorney to craft your claim, an investigation will be carried out. You’ll be asked to give your account of what happened and provide any evidence you have supporting the allegations. The other party will be given the opportunity to respond to your complaint with a defense.
Your employer has a duty to protect you against discrimination and harassment in the workplace. If you are successful in your sexual harassment claim, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit against your employer for compensation in the form of monetary damages, depending on the circumstances of the situation. Generally speaking, you’ll need to be able to produce compelling evidence and, if you can, witness evidence.
With that said, if you’re suffering and are struggling to figure out how to prove your case, make sure to seek legal guidance before assuming that there is nothing to be done. Once you’ve secured the support you need, you can make informed decisions about taking legal action.