What To Do if You Have Been Sexually Harassed

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Try not be alone with the harasser. Ask friends or co-workers to be with you when walking through hallways and leaving public places.
5. File a complaint and get advice from experts in the area of sexual harassment. Advocates of Ozaukee can help: 1-877-375-4034.
6. 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.
7. 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