WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Sexual harassment is not your fault. Its about power, not sex and typically such behavior is designed to humiliate and control.

Here are some steps to follow, if you are being harassed:

• Say NO clearly and make clear you find the behavior offensive.
• Inform the harasser that their attentions are unwanted.
• If the harasser does not stop, write a memo to the harasser requesting they stop and keep a copy.
• Look for witnesses.
• Get emotional support from friends and family, if needed.
• Explore company channels. Use any procedure or channels detailed in your employee handbook. If you are in a union, get the union steward involved.
• File a complaint. If you need to pursue a legal remedy, contact your state discrimination agency or the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

ESTABLISH PROCEDURES

• Appoint a senior corporate official to oversee the implementation of the policy.
• Train your supervisors and managers annually to recognize and prevent sexual harassment.
• Outline procedures to use in reporting sexual harassment.
• Designate a personnel officer or other appropriate manager, rather than a direct supervisor, to receive sexual harassment complaints.
• Provide alternative routes for filing complaints.
• Keep all sexual harassment charges confidential.

If you need to go outside your company: Charges of sexual harassment may be filed at any field office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Field offices are located in 50 cities throughout the United States and are listed in most local telephone directories under U.S. Government. Information on all EEOC-enforced laws may be obtained by calling toll free on 800-669-EEOC.