In April, we survivors celebrate and support SAAM. The theme for 2009 is “Sexual Violence in the Workplace.”

How is Sexual Violence in the Workplace defined?

• Jokes about rape or about women as sex objects
• Language, such as name-calling, using sexual slurs, and comments about someone’s body
• Images that are pornographic or offensive images in the workplace
• Verbal abuse: yelling at someone or making derogatory comments to someone
• Physical abuse of any kind: hitting, touching someone in a sexual manner, and manipulating or forcing someone to have sex

Employers should have an updated sexual harassment policy in their handbook that includes:

• A clearly stated commitment to prevent sexual harassment.
• Anti-harassment language with definitions of both quid pro quo and hostile work environment forms of harassment.
• Clear communication to employees that sexual harassment will not be tolerated, and a detailed explanation of the consequences (including termination) for perpetrators.
• Statement that any complaints of sexual harassment at your workplace will be investigated immediately and thoroughly.
• Detailed instructions on what an employee should do if he/she is a victim of sexual harassment at work.
• A clause that protects the victim’s privacy and ensures that no retaliation from the perpetrator will be tolerated.
• Contact information for:
  1. Local rape crisis center.
  2. Any other individuals on staff that can provide guidance and support (e.g., staff guidance counselor; trained human resources representative, Employee Assistance Program)
• Managers and supervisors at my company are trained to recognize sexual harassment, how to prevent it, and what to do if sexual harassment is reported to them.

What can YOU do?

• Treat others with respect
• Express your concern when you hear an offensive comment or joke
• Offer to help when someone is in need
• Reinforce positive behavior
• Advocate for policies in your community designed to prevent and respond to sexual violence
• Copy and past this whole article in YOUR blog and encourage others to pass the message on!