What happens if you’re at work one day and suddenly feel another employee touching you in a way you deem inappropriate? What if a co-worker makes suggestive remarks or gestures in your direction? Perhaps someone in a position of authority suggests that you dress sexier, or even worse threatens to discipline you unless you perform some kind of sexual act for his or her benefit. Anyone of these types of behaviors is not appropriate and they all constitute sexual harassment. However, by law you have the right to be free of any sexual harassment in the workplace.
Sexual Harassment Definition
In Illinois, sexual harassment is defined as “any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature when 1) submission to such conduct is either explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of employment, and 2) submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as a basis for making decisions about your employment; or 3) such conduct interferes with your job performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.”
Other Sexual Harassment Behaviors
There are several other behaviors that can take place in a work environment that might not be as obvious, but that can still be considered sexual harassment. For example, any sexually suggestive objects, photos, signs, texts or emails, or magazines could also be used for sexual harassment. As long as the person being affected does not want the attention then it could be deemed sexual harassment. There are so many different possible scenarios that can take place at work that could be considered sexual harassment. The bottom line is if you feel that you have been the target of any kind of unwanted sexual behavior, suggestion or threat, then you should consider filing a sexual harassment lawsuit.
We Defend Your Rights
At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we have more than 30 years of experience battling these kinds of cases. We understand what it takes to go after the assailant and to protect the victim’s rights. Sexual harassment is never ok and you should never accept it if you have been the victim. We know that you might feel embarrassed or intimidated by what happened, but don’t let that stop you from taking action and fighting for justice. You do not have to put up with sexual harassment. Please contact us in Chicago today at 312-558-1454 if you have been the victim of sexual harassment.
