Sexual Harassment
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual Harassment means unwelcome conduct, based on sex or on gender stereotypes, which is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it unreasonably interferes with a person’s University employment, academic performance or participation in University programs or activities and creates a working, learning, program or activity environment that a reasonable person would find intimidating, hostile or offensive.
What If I’m Not Sure?
“I don’t like what was said or done, but I’m not sure if this is actually sexual harassment.”
Each situation is unique. If you’re not sure, ask yourself these questions:
- Was the behavior unwelcoming and did/does it make you uncomfortable?
- Was the behavior or comment of a sexual nature?
- Was the conduct done by someone who can affect your grade or your job?
- Was the conduct initiated by another party and not by you?
- Do you fear that reporting the conduct will have a negative effect on your professional or educational goals?
- Does enduring the behavior impact your ability to perform your job or operate in the classroom effectively?
If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” the conduct may constitute sexual harassment.
Please contact someone from the resources page if you have any questions or concerns regarding harassment.