Sexual Harassment

[Shu]

Tried finding this post, I don't think it every existed now that I think about it.

Alright let me first and foremost say that this will need to be kept very very clean around people. This is not as touchy as a subject as "rape" but I want to hear your opinions. Girl and Guy banter is welcomed, as long as kept civil.

Have there ever been times where you've heard someone say something at work or at school the opposite sex where you stopped and said "hmmm that's a little over the line" or have there ever been times where a Lady/Girl or even guy reports (rarer) another person in which you thought the reasons were... well lame?

How far is too far folks? A few examples of wrong: When can one turn their general dislike for another around on someone, and catch them saying something they always say that would be considered innocent in any other case.. but since she/he now dislikes her/him now.. they get busted for it.

I know at most jobs there is a zero tolerance on sexual harassment.. so when someone mentions something out of context maybe at a business function.. well do you consider this bad? (the office =P)

I'd like to hear some.. responses

 

[blakstang98]

I can honestly say I haven't heard of this happening at any job I've had. But because it's a hot-button topic, I'm always very aware of what I say or what I'm about to say before opening my mouth. Thankfully I've never been accused of sexual harassment, and I'd like to keep it that way.

I think in most cases, it's something innocent that gets overdone by the "eye of the beholder". Not to say some things weren't deserving of a penalty, but I think some more innocent events get penalized as well. I know I'm careful with what I say, but I've definitely said things that could have caused termination. But I would generally feel them out first (not in a literal sense) before I make any comment related to sexual matter.

The point you make about 2 workers disliking each other is probably a bigger factor in sexual harassment issues being raised in the work place. I think most people in this day and age can deal with sexually related jokes and such and not be offended by it. But when someone wants someones job, the gloves come off and that's usually a very easy crime to land someone in big trouble with relative ease.

Personally, I tend to look at things rationally, and this is the solution I would propose. Instead of going straight to the boss/higher authority, rather go to that person and they can inform them that they are uncomfortable with what they said and the subject matter in general. Then at least this person can at least be cautious around this individual and not lose their job without warning. I think it's unfair that someone can joke with someone else and lose their job over it, regardless of how brutal the joke may have been. But again, there is no real way to enforce this. It's difficult to find a happy medium with not offending people who don't like the topic while bringing it to the attention of the "harasser" that this person is offended by their jokes. It's a fine line to tread.

I think it's just easier to be cautious until you know who you can and can't joke with. Then if you do open the flood gates on sexual topics, to do so cautiously, this way it's possible to fight and maintain a job with a simple warning and nothing more.

 

[Shu]

I agree 100% about what you have said, but I know once the comments are made, and the victim per se is put in the situation where they have to work with this person every day.. it makes for a very hostile work environment.

One thing I would say is this, if it is a fellow coworker and not your boss and let's see you felt it was very uncomfortable, say "Hey I wanna have sex with you, because you are looking mighty fine in that top..." Well you have to put them in their place first. If they keep on doing it, make a paper trail and go to the Boss about it. In my opinion sexual harassment is no small issue, hince usually the automatic firing or the blatent reprimanding.

If someone is giving you a comment though like "hey which pole are you dancing on tonight.." well that's a jerkoff comment and most likely joking, but I wouldn't deem it as sexual harassment.

I deem it as sexual harassment when the person invades your personal space, and actually puts their hand on you.. in a way you don't agree with. Though I believe its best to say something to them first, then later if they keep doing it.. report their arse. Some people are just very... touchy.. even to they're male or female friends outside of work.

And may I say never.. EVER take sexual harassment from superior, report them.. don't just wuss out because of a sense of job security.