The workplace should be a safe haven where employees feel respected and protected from any form of mistreatment. Regardless of gender, everyone deserves to perform their work duties without fear of harassment or inappropriate behavior from co-workers or clients. When sexual harassment tarnishes this sense of security, it becomes imperative for the law to intervene and provide assistance.
Sexual harassment encompasses a broad range of behaviors, from whistles and cat calls to unwanted advances, personal questions about one’s sex life, or even more severe acts like sexual assault or rape. Whether verbal or non-verbal, actions such as staring, whistling, gift-giving, spreading rumors, or making sexual comments all fall under the umbrella of sexual harassment.
Typically, sexual harassment is not a one-time occurrence, especially when it involves ongoing sexual comments. However, when these acts become pervasive, leading to a hostile work environment, it crosses the line into sexual harassment and becomes illegal.
Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
In New Jersey, sexual harassment is a crime in the context of employment, housing, and places of accommodation, which includes businesses, restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) outlines specific provisions related to sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment can manifest in various forms, such as verbal harassment involving obscene language or demeaning comments, physical harassment involving unwanted touching, or visual harassment through the display of sexually explicit images, cartoons, or drawings.
There are generally two types of sexual harassment recognized:
- Quid pro quo: This occurs when a benefit, such as a raise or promotion, is conditioned upon sexual favors, or when threats are made if a sexual advance is refused.
- Hostile environment: This occurs when a person is subjected to unwanted, severe, or pervasive harassing conduct.
Employers, housing providers, and places of public accommodation are obligated to take action to stop sexual harassment when they become aware of it. You should never hesitate to refuse any advances or take action against sexual harassment. Moreover, an employer, landlord, or place of public accommodation cannot retaliate against you for filing a sexual harassment complaint or exercising your rights under the LAD.
Contact Us Today
Sexual harassment is never acceptable in the workplace in New Jersey and is prohibited under both state and federal law. If you are facing sexual harassment at work, you should not have to tolerate it. The Law Offices of Usmaan Sleemi can guide you through the process, fighting to recover compensation on your behalf and holding your employer accountable for mistreatment. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling (973) 833-3459. Don’t suffer in silence—take action to protect your rights and ensure a respectful workplace environment.
