According to the findings of a recent EEOC task force, workplace harassment remains a persistent problem. Of the 90,000 charges received by the EEOC in 2015, one third included allegations of workplace harassment including charges of unlawful harassment on the basis of sex.
Unfortunately, much of the time sex-based harassment goes unreported. Victims often try to just avoid the harasser or attempt to ignore, forget or endure the behavior fearing they will not be believed, that nothing will be done anyway, or that they will face social and professional retaliation if they report inappropriate behavior.
Although standing up to harassment in the workplace can be daunting, the good news is that EEOC has recovered over $160 million on behalf of workers alleging harassment. That’s just the beginning of the negative impacts employers face if harassment goes unchecked, however. Workplace harassment costs employers in terms of negatively affecting all their workers, decreased productivity, high turnover rates and reputational harm as well.
If you have been a victim of workplace sexual harassment or other types of discrimination based on sex, race, disability, age, ethnicity/national origin, color, or religion, contact the Davenport, Iowa employment discrimination lawyers of McDonald, Woodward & Carlson PC for help. We have assisted both private and public sector employees who have been discriminated against on the job, are facing retaliation in the workplace or have been wrongfully terminated. We can help you understand your rights and represent you if you have been treated unfairly. Contact us today.