Workers depend on their jobs to support their families, put a roof over their heads, and gain experience that could lead to better employment opportunities. However, the unfortunate reality is that the fear of losing one’s job often prevents employees from reporting incidents of workplace harassment. This fear is particularly prevalent when the perpetrator occupies a higher position within the company. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces stringent employment laws, making harassment against protected classes illegal. Employers who violate these laws will face serious repercussions. Despite these legal safeguards, many incidents of harassment go unreported. Please continue reading to learn why employees keep quiet about their experiences and how a trusted New York Sexual Harassment Lawyer can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
What Are Some Common Reasons Employees Fail to Report Workplace Harassment?
One of the most common reasons employees fail to report workplace harassment is that they aren’t aware of their rights. As mentioned above, harassment of any kind is illegal in the workplace. Many employees fail to understand that when such incidents occur, they are entitled to pursue legal action against their harasser. Another reason employees fear reporting workplace harassment is their lack of trust in the system and the uncertainty of the resolution. Employees often don’t trust their managers or the human resources department to address their complaints adequately. An authoritative figure may dismiss your allegations. When an employee perceives their claim is not being taken seriously, it can deter them from further pursuing the accusations.
In some cases, employees are afraid that they will be labeled as troublemakers for voicing their complaints. It’s important to understand that speaking up takes substantial courage. Some workers don’t want to draw attention to themselves, as they fear ostracization from their co-workers and managers if they report such incidents.
Can an Employer Retaliate Against an Employee for Filing a Complaint?
Furthermore, many employees fail to file a complaint with the EEOC regarding workplace harassment because they fear their employer will take revenge. However, employers are prohibited from retaliating against an employee for filing a claim under the law. If an employer fails to adhere to EEOC regulations, they will be subject to a lawsuit. Some retaliation actions include firingemployeese, demoting them, refusing an earned promotion, lowering their salary, or denying them benefits. Employees often fear the repercussions of making a report against someone of authority as they don’t think the potential penalties for making such a report are worth it. If you are the victim of workplace harassment, you must understand that you can stop it without experiencing any negative ramifications.
Although most companies take accusations of workplace harassment seriously, some remain outliers. If you are the victim of workplace harassment, please don’t hesitate to contact a compassionate attorney from Bell Law Group, PLLC, who will take your accusations seriously and fight for you.
