Sexual Harassment

• Unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile work environment.
• Explain the types of sexual harassment (Physical, Verbal and Visual).

• Scenarios young workers may encounter, e.g., jokes or comments about someone's appearance, inappropriate physical contact, inappropriate texts or emails, etc.
• Use real-life examples that might reflect workplace situations for young workers, such as internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work.

• Explain young workers are frequent targets of sexual harassment because:
  • young workers are young, typically unmarried.
  • Working in Part-time, seasonal, or free-lance positions.
  • young workers may not want to jeopardize future employment prospects.

Be an ally: Recognize Harassment and Speak Up!

No one should have to deal with sexual harassment. If you or someone you know is affected, don’t stay silent. Speak up and seek support. 

If you or someone you know experiences sexual harassment, here’s how to respond:

• young workers can report harassment without fear of retaliation.
• Legal protections are in place to safeguard their rights.
• Retaliation is against the Law: No form of retaliation (or "getting even") will be taken against any employee who officially reports sexual harassment. Examples include:
  
  • Making the person's work more difficult.
  • Purposefully changing work schedule.
  • Denying a pay raise or promotion.
  • Transferring to a less desirable position.
  • Engaging in verbal or physical abuse.
  • Spreading false rumors.
  • Poor performance review.
  • Firing.

• Encourage young workers to be allies and foster positive relationships.
  • Ask them what work would look like with this kind of environment.
• Promote mutual respect, open communication, and zero tolerance for harassment.
  • Emphasize the importance of standing up if they witness harassment.
  • Offer support to the victim.
  • Be an Ally!

…to keep the young workers engaged.