Recognize and understand what constitutes sexual harassment. Be aware of inappropriate comments, gestures, advances, or any unwelcome behavior that creates a hostile work environment. Trust your instincts - if something feels uncomfortable or inappropriate, take it seriously.
Familiarize yourself with the company's policies on sexual harassment and your legal rights. This knowledge will empower you to advocate for yourself and navigate the situation more effectively. If your employer is part of a union, check your collective bargaining agreement.
Clearly communicate your discomfort to the person involved if you feel safe doing so. You can make this request in person, through a co-worker or in writing. Firmly establish your boundaries and make it clear that their behavior is unwelcome.
If you don’t feel safe or comfortable talking to the harasser, you can skip to step 4 or 5.
It can sometimes be helpful to keep a detailed record of each incident, including dates, times, locations, and descriptions of what occurred. Document any names of co-workers or other witnesses who overheard or participated in the discussion or event.
If you have concerns about your working environment, for example you are feeling upset and uncomfortable at work, or the harassment persists after speaking to the harasser, you can report the incidents to your boss, supervisor, manager, or Human Resources department. If you have it, provide them with your documented evidence and be prepared to discuss your concerns. If your workplace does not have a policy and complaint form, you can use this template:
Your employer is required by law to have a harassment policy which includes sexual harassment. If you discover that they do not have a policy, you can contact WorkSafeNB to report this.
If the workplace does not address the issue appropriately, consider reaching out to explore further options. In some cases, legal action may be necessary.
Seek professional support if needed, such as counseling or therapy. Remember, you are not alone, and support is available.
If you're comfortable, use your experience to advocate for change. Download this poster and put it up around your school or workplace:
It can feel overwhelming to bring an official complaint against your workplace on your own. There are a number of organisations that can support you along the way.
You can try to resolve the problem through the policies or resolution mechanisms your organization has in place. As of April 1, 2019, all employers in New Brunswick are required to have a policy regarding workplace harassment, including sexual harassment.
Reporting can be done formally, where policies or grievance procedures exist. But you can also take action informally, by seeking support or requesting advice from someone you trust. If other people you know at work have experienced similar behaviour, then you can speak to Human Resources or make a report together. The Safer Places NB Reporting Harassment template will help you:
You can make a complaint against your employer and/or the perpetrator to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission. The New Brunswick Human Rights Act prohibits workplace sexual harassment and discrimination.
Every employer in New Brunswick must address sexual harassment immediately upon receiving notice of an incident, or when they become aware of harassing behavior, even if it has not been reported.
Sexual harassment can reach the level of a criminal offence. It is a crime if the harassment involves attempted or actual physical assault, including unwanted touching, sexual assault, or threats of an assault. Where sexual harassment includes any of these things, you can contact the police or RCMP. They will investigate and, if they have enough evidence, they will lay charges. It is the police and not you who decides to lay charges.