Sexual Harassment - Essay Example

October 27, Sexual harassment laws and policies help prevent workplace conflict because they define sexual harassment, demonstrate commitment to averting sexual harassment, and guide employer and employees on the procedures of reporting sexual harassment cases (“Stop Violence Against Women: Sexual Harassment”). People have a responsibility to their co-workers of avoiding actions and circumstances that may lead to sexual harassment. An example is the case of Bikram Choudhury. His student Sarah Baughn accuses him of sexual harassment because of his physical aggression towards her and his sexual statements directed to her (Riley).

If Choudhury is aware of and follows sexual harassment laws and policies, he would understand that these actions are unacceptable because Baughn can sue him with sexual harassment. Employees should avoid acts that can result to sexual harassment claims. Furthermore, people should also help report sexual harassment cases. Some victims may be afraid of reporting them because of fear of losing their jobs or not being promoted. Those who are sexually harassing them might be making threats against them already.

Employees have a responsibility to their co-workers to promote obedience to the law and the protection from sexual harassment through following sexual harassment reporting guidelines. This way, they are also protecting their environment from being a toxic one where people fear what sexual harassment can do to the stability and development of their careers. In addition, employees can also recommend improvements to sexual harassment policies that are appropriate to their organizations. They can ensure that these policies remain relevant to their workplace and cultures that may improve these policies’ effectiveness.

Works CitedRiley, Samantha. “‘Hot Yoga’ Guru Faces Sexual Harassment Charges.” abcnews.com, 22 Mar. 2013. Web. 27 Oct. 2014. .“Stop Violence Against Women: Sexual Harassment.” University of Minnesota Human Rights Library. Web. 27 Oct. 2014. .