Have you ever felt uncomfortable, threatened, or discriminated against at work? You’re not alone. Workplace harassment is a pervasive issue that affects millions of employees across the United States. Whether it’s an inappropriate comment, an unwanted advance, or a hostile environment that makes you dread going to work, harassment in any form is unacceptable. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and valued in your workplace.
At Rankin Law Firm, we understand the profound impact that harassment can have on your life and career. We’re here to stand by your side, ensuring that those who have wronged you are held accountable and that you regain the sense of security and dignity that every employee is entitled to.
WORKPLACE HARASSMENT
Types of Workplace Harassment
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is perhaps the most widely recognized form of workplace harassment, but that doesn’t make it any less harmful or less complex. This type of harassment can range from unwanted advances and inappropriate comments to more severe forms like quid pro quo harassment, where your job or promotion is contingent on submitting to such advances. Imagine being passed over for a promotion because you refused to “play along.” It’s not just wrong—it’s illegal.
Sexual harassment isn’t about attraction or harmless flirting; it’s about power and control. And it’s something no one should have to endure.
Verbal Harassment
Words can hurt, and in the workplace, they can do more than that—they can create a hostile and toxic environment that makes it impossible to function. Verbal harassment can include abusive language, threats, derogatory remarks, and offensive jokes that target your identity or beliefs. It’s not just “harmless banter” when it leaves you feeling belittled, humiliated, or unsafe.
The law recognizes that words have power, and when they’re used to demean or intimidate, they can constitute harassment. If you’re subjected to verbal abuse at work, it’s time to speak up and take action.
Physical Harassment
Physical harassment is perhaps the most overt and frightening form of workplace harassment. It can range from physical intimidation to outright assault. Whether it’s an aggressive shove, an unwelcome touch, or worse, physical harassment is a blatant violation of your personal space and safety. No one should have to fear for their physical well-being while trying to do their job.
The law is unequivocal on this: physical harassment is a crime, and those who perpetrate it must be held accountable. You deserve to feel safe at work, and Rankin Law Firm is here to ensure that you do.
Visual Harassment
Visual harassment may not involve words or physical contact, but it can be just as damaging. This can include exposure to inappropriate images, suggestive gestures, or any other visual material that makes you feel uncomfortable or degraded. Imagine walking into a break room plastered with offensive posters or finding explicit images left on your desk.
Visual harassment is a clear violation of your right to a respectful workplace, and it’s something you shouldn’t have to tolerate.
Retaliation
Retaliation is often the next chapter in a workplace harassment story. It happens when an employer or coworker punishes you for reporting harassment or for standing up for your rights. Retaliation can take many forms, from demotion and denial of promotions to more subtle actions like exclusion from meetings or projects.
Retaliation is illegal, plain and simple. You have the right to report harassment without fear of repercussions, and any attempt to punish you for doing so is itself a violation of your rights.
Discriminatory Harassment
Discriminatory harassment is harassment based on protected characteristics like race, gender, religion, age, or disability. This form of harassment isn’t just a violation of your dignity—it’s a violation of the law. Whether it’s being passed over for promotions because of your age, enduring racial slurs, or facing constant religious discrimination, this behavior is unacceptable and illegal.
Discriminatory harassment undermines the principles of equality and fairness that the workplace should uphold.
WORKPLACE HARASSMENT
Legal Protections Against Workplace Harassment
Steps to Take if You Experience Workplace Harassment
- Document Everything:
Keep a detailed record of every incident, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. - Report Internally:
Follow your company’s procedures for reporting harassment. This often means going to HR or your supervisor. - File an External Complaint:
If your employer doesn’t address the issue, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or your state’s relevant agency. - Seek Legal Advice:
Don’t wait until things get worse. Consulting with an employment lawyer early can help protect your rights and guide your next steps.