Sexual Harassment
Definition
Sexual harassment is commonly defined as any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favor or other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, particularly when:
- Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic standing,
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for an employment or academic decision affecting that individual, or
- Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
If You Think You Are Being Harassed
Though some offensive comments or gestures might be unintentional, this does not mean that you have to tolerate them. You always have the right to tell the offender to stop.
Document the behaviors. Save any problematic emails, text, voicemails, etc. Make note of comments and other behaviors. Consider saving the information in a calendar format.
If you feel harassed or uncomfortable with someone’s behavior, trust your instincts. Tell the person that their behavior is making you uncomfortable, and that you want it to stop. If you are unable to do this for any reason, or if the harasser disregards your message, consider reaching out to one of the resources on this site for assistance.
Students can contact the Office of the Dean of Students for help with sexual harassment.