When Florida workers face sexual harassment on the job, many are afraid to take action to stop the unwanted advances. These fears of losing a job or other forms of retaliation could be well-founded. According to a university study, most workers who come forward with complaints about sexual harassment are fired or experience some form of unjust treatment on the job shortly thereafter. The Center for Employment Equity reported that 64 percent of harassment complainants lost their jobs within one year of making their claim.
The center reviewed over 46,000 sexual harassment cases between 2012 and 2016, including claims filed with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as well as with state Fair Employment Practices agencies. The #MeToo movement has drawn attention to the ongoing harassment that women face in many fields, but researchers worry that victims continue to face further retaliation. According to the center, around 5 million employees suffer some form of harassment at work, but the vast majority do not file a formal complaint. Only around 1,500 cases go to court each year, and only 23 percent of those who file EEOC claims are likely to receive financial compensation.
Women are far more likely to experience sexual harassment on the job and to file harassment claims. In fact, women filed 81 percent of these claims; although, they make up 47 percent of the total workforce. On the other hand, men filed only 19 percent of harassment claims.
Workers continue to face serious problems with harassment at work, even at major companies and in rising industries. Someone who has been harassed on the job can seek out sexual harassment legal assistance to move forward and seek justice in their case.
