Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Protecting Employee Rights — Kennedy Law
No one should ever feel unsafe, intimidated, or devalued at work. Unfortunately, sexual harassment in the workplace remains all too common, affecting employees across all industries and job levels. If you’ve been the target of unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments, or a hostile work environment, you have rights—and Kennedy Law is here to help protect them. Mr. Kennedy, the founder of Kennedy Law, is dedicated to representing individuals who have experienced sexual harassment at work.
What You Should Know About Sexual Harassment:
- Sexual harassment can be verbal, written, or physical. This includes unwelcome touching, crude jokes, explicit comments, inappropriate messages, or repeated advances—whether in person or online.
- There are two common types of workplace sexual harassment:
- Quid pro quo harassment — when a supervisor demands sexual favors in exchange for promotions, raises, or other benefits—or threatens consequences for refusal.
- Hostile work environment — when ongoing sexual conduct creates an abusive or offensive workplace atmosphere.
- Harassment can come from anyone in the workplace. It doesn’t have to come from a boss—coworkers, clients, and even customers can be responsible. Employers have a legal duty to prevent and address this behavior.
- Federal and state laws protect employees. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits sexual harassment, and Pennsylvania offers additional protections for workers.
- Employees have the right to take action. Whether it’s filing an internal HR complaint, contacting the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or pursuing a legal claim, Mr. Kennedy can provide guidance through each step of the process.
- Time matters. Strict filing deadlines (called statutes of limitations) apply to sexual harassment claims, so it’s important to act promptly.
- Retaliation is illegal. Employers cannot lawfully punish someone for reporting sexual harassment, supporting a colleague’s complaint, or asserting their rights under the law.