Sexual Harassment
Harassment can include "sexual harassment" or unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.
Harassment does not have to be of a sexual nature, however, and can include offensive remarks about a person's sex. For example, it is illegal to harass a woman by making offensive comments about women in general.
JESSICA
Your manager comes up to Jessica, who sits next to you, leans down, and whispers, “I heard you have a hidden tattoo. I’d love to see it.”
Did Jessica experience sexual harassment?
Yes. It sounds like the manager is making a pass at Jessica, or at least being kind of creepy
Yes. Managers should never ask about peoples’ tattoos - it’s too private.
No. Your manager might just be a tattoo enthusiast.
No. Asking about body art does not constitute sexual harassment.
DONNA
During a break at the Sales Team staff meeting, Donna sat next to Jerry. Jerry was entertaining some fellow co-workers, joking around and telling some funny stories. Jerry told a sexually suggestive story about an office secretary and a CEO that made Donna squirm in her seat. When Jerry was done with his stories, Donna leaned over and told him that his story had made her uncomfortable, and that she wished he wouldn't use language like that. Jerry apologized to Donna, and told her he didn't realize his joke would affect people that way. The next day, Donna found a candy bar and a note on her desk from Jerry, apologizing again for his comments the day before. Donna never heard any similar comments from Jerry ever again.
Did Donna experience sexual harassment?
No, Jerry apologized for his behavior and never did it again.
Yes, Jerry’s joke was sexually suggestive and offensive.