Sexual harassment in the workplace is not a thing of the past, despite what some may say. Unwanted comments about your appearance, inappropriate touching, and repeated personal questions through text messages are just a few examples of behavior that could be considered harassment. In some cases, employers may even try to exchange work opportunities for sexual favors. The fact that the person causing the harassment is your boss, who is also responsible for your job and income, makes it understandable that reporting the behavior could put your employment at risk. This fear of retaliation is why many individuals choose not to report incidents of sexual harassment. But can an employer legally punish you because you reported them for sexual harassment? The answer is no, but if you were wronged for reporting against your employer, New York employment law attorneys can help you.
Below are the key points to consider:
Rights and Protections When Reporting Sexual Harassment:
If you’re experiencing sexual harassment at work, reporting it can be a daunting prospect. However, it’s crucial to remember that you have legal protection when reporting such incidents. Knowing that it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for reporting harassment should give you some peace of mind.
The Harsh Reality of Workplace Retaliation:
To hide their conduct, employers may retaliate against you for reporting sexual harassment by taking various actions, including reducing your job responsibilities or pay, providing misleading employee performance reviews, spreading rumors about you, or making you feel unwelcome in their team.
Protecting Yourself Against Retaliation:
To safeguard yourself against potential retaliation from your employer, it’s vital to follow the reporting procedures outlined in your employee handbook and consult the appropriate parties before taking legal action. Be aware of your rights and document any evidence that could be useful in proving your case. Remember, you have a right to a safe work environment free from harassment.
Final thoughts:
If you’ve reported sexual harassment at work and are facing unfair treatment from your employer, you may need to explore your legal options. By seeking advice from a legal professional with expertise in employment law, it can help you understand your rights better and prepare you to navigate the legal process smoothly. Don’t give up—by taking action, you may prevent someone else from experiencing similar mistreatment in the future.
