Unlike other states, Arizona sexual harassment law does not require that employers mandate training programs related to sexual misconduct and harassment in a workplace environment. However, it is strongly suggested that organizations implement training about what constitutes sexual harassment to decrease the risk of it happening in their workplace. Training programs are an excellent way to give both supervisors and employees information about what is acceptable and what is not, and to give employees the necessary resources to handle a situation where they feel that their civil rights are being violated.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 – Title VI is an act that provides protection of both men and women from sexual harassment. Since the Act makes sexual harassment illegal, a victim of harassment can seek compensation if they have been sexually harassed, especially if the employer has been made aware of the misconduct and has done nothing to ameliorate the situation. If you feel that you are a victim of sexual harassment, Arizona’s law allows you to sue your employer or to file a claim either at the state or the federal level – or both.
Statistics released by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in 2016 indicate that sexual harassment perpetrated in the workplace totals as much as 31.1% of all the charges made in Arizona.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment is any conduct that includes unwelcome requests for favors of a sexual nature or unwelcome advances with the purpose of either implicitly or explicitly affecting someone’s work advancement or career if the request is not followed. It also encompasses any sexual conduct that makes someone feel uncomfortable or that threatens their ability to work in a non-hostile, inoffensive or non-intimidating work environment.
Examples of sexual harassment might include:
- Discussing sexual information in the workplace
- Stalking
- Sexual advances
- Inappropriate touching
- Sexual bullying
What Are the Various Types of Sexual Harassment?
“Quid pro quo” literally means “this for that” regarding sexual harassment. This is when an employee is offered favors that are contingent specifically upon them giving in to sexual advances. That can mean that an employee is either offered a better position for a sexual favor or that they feel as if they will be denied advancement if they do not go along with a sexual request.
“Hostile work environment” sexual harassment occurs when someone feels that the conduct of another employee is creating a hostile working environment. Unlike quid pro quo, a hostile work environment is when an employee negates the rights of another employee by creating a threatening workplace atmosphere via sexual conduct that is either physical or verbal.
What Can You Do If You Feel That You Are a Victim of Sexual Harassment?
The first thing you should do if you feel that you are a victim of sexual harassment is to inform your supervisor or boss, or talk to your human resources department to file a claim. Arizona sexual harassment cases can be handled by either the federal government through filing a claim through the Equal Opportunities Employment Commission, or by hiring an Arizona sexual harassment attorney to handle your case. Although you can file a claim on your own, it is always best to find a professional Arizona sexual harassment lawyer at usattoneys.com and have them in your corner to protect you.
When you are at work, you have the right to feel safe and comfortable. If there is someone who is violating Arizona’s sexual harassment laws, then it is a good idea to consult a USAttorneys.com professional. They can ensure your case is handled correctly, that there is no retaliation for filing a claim and to ensure that the harassment stops. Contact an Arizona sexual harassment attorney today so that you can get back to work in a healthy and non-threatening environment.
