If
you are experiencing sexual harassment, there are things that you can do to
stop it. It is understandable why many victims of sexual harassment do not
want to speak up. But it is important to know that ignoring the harassment
will not make it go away. Here are some steps you can take to address sexual
harassment.
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Make it very clear to the person harassing you that you want it to STOP
immediately. Use assertive words to let him or her know that you are no
comfortable with the behavior. Tell them you feel harassed. Do not laugh
or smile at them.
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Keep a log. Write down everything that happens- the names of the harassers,
times the harassment took place and dates, exactly what was said or done,
and the names of any witnesses. Start by writing how your harassment began,
and attach extra pages if necessary. Then include the dates and times along
with people who were involved in each situation. Be specific when writing
down the things that were said and done. You should also include how you
responded. Names of witnesses and people you told about the harassment are
important to include because it will help support you and your case.
- Tell
someone in a position of authority. If you are at school, tell a teacher
or guidance counselor. If you are at work, tell a supervisor. If the problem
continues and the person in authority doesn’t do anything, tell someone
higher up. Once you have told this person, document who you told, when you
told them and this person’s response.
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Try not be alone with the harasser. Ask friends or co-workers to be with
you when walking through hallways and leaving public places.
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File a complaint and get advice from experts in the area of sexual harassment.
Advocates of Ozaukee can help: 1-877-375-4034.
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Get help in taking care of yourself emotionally. People who are sexually
harassed often feel violated, embarrassed, ashamed, angry and confused.
All of these feelings are normal, but it is important to get help working
through them.
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Remember, sexual harassment is NOT your fault. It is another example of
abuse, when someone is trying to gain power and control over another person.
For
more information, or if you have been sexually harassed or abused, please
call Advocates of Ozaukee (numbers below).
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