Proving verbal sexual harassment poses unique challenges, as it often boils down to one person’s word against another’s. Without physical evidence or tangible documentation, victims may struggle to convince others of their experiences. This elusive nature not only complicates the pursuit of justice but also intensifies the emotional toll on those affected.
Nonetheless, while proving verbal sexual harassment can be challenging, there are several steps you can take to build a strong case.
Your move
Here are some ways to document and support your claims:
- Detail record: Keep a detailed record of all incidents, including dates, times, locations, what the harasser said or did and any witnesses. Write down your immediate feelings and responses to the incidents as well.
- Witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the incidents, ask them to provide statements. These can corroborate your account and provide additional perspectives on the behavior.
- Follow-up communications: If the harassment included any form of communication, such as emails, texts or notes, keep copies of these. Even if the primary harassment was verbal, sometimes you can capture the context or follow-up in written communications.
Taking these steps can help substantiate your claim of verbal sexual harassment, leading to a better chance of your employer appropriately addressing it or legal channels working effectively.
Your protection
It is important to remember that workers are protected by law from sexual harassment in the workplace. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not hesitate to take action; your rights are safeguarded and there are mechanisms in place to support you. Seeking advice from a qualified attorney can help you navigate through the complexities of your case effectively.