When people go to work in Minnesota they should be able to simply focus on their work and finish the various job tasks that they need to finish that day. Unfortunately, many people are not able to do this because of the actions of their co-workers or even their supervisors and managers. Many people are subjected to various forms of harassment. One of the most common forms is sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment can come in different forms. It could be overt sexual advances or statements. It could be saying crude, sexual jokes or having pictures and other sexual images for others to see, making employees uncomfortable at work. These examples of sexual harassment create what is usually referred to as a hostile work environment.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment basics
Another main type of sexual harassment is known as quid pro quo sexual harassment. This occurs when sexual favors are requested in exchange for something. This could be offering a raise or promotion in exchange for a sexual favor. It could also be a threat to reprimand or withdraw a recommendation if the person does not provide some kind of sexual favor. Given the nature of quid pro quo sexual harassment, this type of sexual harassment generally can only be done by a superior within the company.
Either type of sexual harassment is illegal and the victims of the harassment could be entitled to compensation as a result. This could include compensation for any emotional distress caused by the harassment in addition to potentially loss income associated with the harassment and lost benefits as well.
Sexual harassment in Minnesota should never occur and employees have rights that protect them against it. If people are harassed it can be scary to bring it up to human resources or upper management fearing retaliation or repercussions as a result. However, employees are protected against retaliation as well. People who have experienced sexual harassment need to be able to rectify the situation and consulting with experienced attorneys could be beneficial.