Georgia Ranks Among Top Ten States in Workplace Sexual Harassment Claims

Sexual harassment takes many forms in workplaces around the United States. It exists when a boss seeks sexual favors in exchange for a promotion and when an employee is unwillingly exposed to explicit images while their trying to do their job. Though this type of misconduct occurs throughout the country, a recent review found that Georgia is among the 10 states with the highest rate of sexual harassment claims. 

Georgia ranked seventh in the United States with an average of 3.83 sexual harassment claims per 100,000 people. Sexual harassment is defined by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. This can include unwanted touching, suggestive comments, sexually explicit jokes or the display of offensive images.

It’s important to remember that someone of any gender or sexual orientation can be the perpetrator or victim of sexual harassment. Many of these cases turn on whether a specific comment or action was welcome or not. Individuals accused of sexual harassment often try to defend themselves by claiming the employee was not bothered by the advances, or that everyone involved understood that the conduct in question was a supposedly innocent joke. 

If you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment at work, it is important to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment, on the job.  

Along with protection against sexual harassment, the law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report mistreatment, so you should not hesitate to speak up for your rights. While you can pursue relief by filing a complaint with the EEOC, strict deadlines apply. Consulting immediately with an experienced employment law attorney will give you the information you need to move forward.  

At The Reddy Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to protecting the rights of Georgians who have been subjected to sexual harassment. Please call 678-629-3246 or contact us online to talk about your options with an accomplished lawyer. Our office is in Alpharetta.