Defining Sexual Harassment by Peter Lewiston - Essay Example

While Peter Lewiston did not overstep the boundaries of what is considered inappropriate conduct or do anything illegal, he did put Gilbury in an uncomfortable situation where she did not want to be. She made it clear multiple times that she did not want Lewiston to treat her like that or try to instigate something further. Based on the EEOC definition of sexual harassment, I think there is a case to hear because Lewiston created an extremely hostile sexual environment.

No, I don't think intent or motive should be considered because it does not matter if he did not mean to offend. After all, the reality is that he made Gilbury feel very uncomfortable around him. It was weighing on her mind and could have eventually impacted Gilbury's work. It does not matter if Lewiston had the right intentions because the reality is that he overstepped the mark on this one.

If I was the district EEOC officer, I would listen to both sides of the story and then come to a conclusion based on the evidence available. I would have to say that in this instance I would agree that Lewiston was sexually harassing Gilbury because it happened repeatedly over several days. I would give Lewiston a strong warning and remind him that any further complaints would result in instant dismissal for him.