Sexual harassment is any deliberate or repeated sexual behavior that is unwelcome to the recipient. Sexual favors may be demanded or suggested as a condition of employment, or a hostile work environment may be created through sexual comments, jokes, pictures, or inappropriate touching.

What can victims of sexual harassment do?

• Tell the perpetrator his behavior is unwelcome
• Keep a log with specific dates, times, locations, and witnesses
• Talk to a supervisor
• Contact the human resources department
• File a formal complaint
• Contact a local sexual assault program

What can employers do?

Employers should have a sexual harassment policy that includes a definition of sexual harassment, a statement of zero tolerance, procedures for filing a complaint, and disciplinary procedures. Violations of the sexual harassment policy should be strictly enforced.

For more information on sexual harassment see the National Women's Law Center website. For resources on sexual harassment in the schools, go to the Wellesley Centers for Women website.