Sexual Harassment Can be a “Cold Play”: How to Recognize & Address It, Part I

You just never know how the week is going to go.

Two high-ranking company executives have lived an overblown example of that reality recently. In case you (somehow) missed it, the “kiss cam” at a Coldplay concert recently captured the moment that a married CEO of a company was embracing the Head of Human Resources of that same company.

As of the time of writing, no sexual harassment claims have been made public – and this article is not claiming that there needs to be. However, the recent visibility of this office entanglement has brought sexual harassment forward in day-to-day conversation. And, unfortunately, Georgia recently ranked third in the U.S. for the highest number of sexual harassment charges filed with the EEOC as a percentage of the population.

It is important for everyday people – even those not experiencing sexual harassment – to understand the complexities of how it operates in the workplace. Harassment can take so many forms, some more obvious than others. And it can affect many aspects of an individual’s professional life and mental health.

Given the importance of becoming familiar with sexual harassment in professional settings, this article aims to help readers understand some key concepts. Part 1 of this two-part series will focus on introducing what workplace sexual harassment is as a whole. We will also touch on some laws in place to protect workers from sexual harassment, as well as recognizing and reporting abuse. Part II will go more into employer responsibilities and obligations, employee rights and resources, as well as preventative measures.

Contact an experienced sexual harassment attorney at the Forsythe Law Firm to learn more and discuss the details of your own case. If it feels wrong – trust your instincts and reach out to appropriate sources for help.

Understanding Georgia Workplace Sexual Harassment

Georgia law defines sexual harassment unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has an impact on an individual’s employment.

The sexual harassment can manifest as something like a quid pro quo, where employment/benefits are contingent upon sexual favors. Alternatively, it could become fodder for a hostile work environment. Recognizing the ways sexual harassment can manifest is essential for both preventing and properly addressing incidents effectively.

Georgia State Laws and Federal Regulations

Every state in the nation adheres to certain federal laws in place to combat workplace sexual harassment. In addition to this, Georgia also follows state-specific laws. The Georgia Fair Employment Practices Act complements the federally mandated protections of, for example, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The law requires employers to take action to protect workers’ rights and foster a safe work environment.

Recognizing and Reporting Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment does not take only one form, but recognizing it is vital. Recognizing harassment involves identifying behaviors that you find to be unwelcome. This might be inappropriate comments, inappropriate decorations hung up at work, inappropriate touching, or sharing explicit content, for example.

Harassment might occur between any workplace individuals – regardless of gender. While historically females are the primary victims of sexual harassment, males can also experience sexual harassment and should not hesitate to protect their rights. Awareness and early identification of problems can be key. Not all misconduct will meet the legal threshold to quantify as “harassment.” Knowing your rights will help you as you move forward.

Georgia law protects employees from retaliation, so Georgia employees should feel empowered to act against harassment they may be experiencing – an experienced sexual harassment attorney can help.

Contact the Forsythe Law Firm

An experienced Atlanta sexual harassment attorney at the Forsythe Law Firm can help you assess the circumstances of your own situation. Contact our office today.

Sources:

doas.ga.gov/human-resources-administration/sexual-harassment-prevention/sexual-harassment-prevention-overview

miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article309771255.html