EMPLOYMENT LAW DEPARTMENT

Employment Law Topic HARASSMENT

A. In General

Harassment is a form of discrimination that typically consists of unwelcome conduct that is severe or pervasive in nature. Sexual harassment is the most common form of harassment, and it receives the most attention.

However, harassment based upon any protected category is unlawful including:

• Race
• Religion
• National Origin or ancestry
• Mental or Physical Disability
• Pregnancy
• Sexual Orientation
• Age (over 40)

B. There are two forms of harassment:

Quid Pro Quo (this for that):

This involves situations in which continuation of job benefits, etc., is conditioned on sexual favors.

Hostile Work Environment:

This involves unwelcome conduct of a harassing nature and can include offensive jokes, posters, leering, and/or touching.