Women's Center

Sexual Harassment

What is it?

Sexual harassment is any kind of unwelcome sexual advance. It can be a pinch, a leer, a suggestive remark, or an overt request for sexual favors.

Forms of sexual harassment:

Verbal:

Suggestive comments
Sexual innuendo and insults
Humor and jokes about sex
Threats
Comments and jokes based upon gender or sexual identity

Non-Verbal:

Whistling, leering and ogling
Suggestive or insulting sounds
Display of obscene or suggestive material
Obscene gestures

Physical:

Touching or patting
Pinching
Brushing against the body
Coerced sexual conduct
Assault

Don't Blame Yourself!
Sexual Harassment is about POWER, not Sex.

Reporting Sexual Harassment

What to do if you are being sexually harassed:

Object and say no clearly. Object verbally first, and if this does not work object in writing and keep a copy of the letter.
Document the harassment. Write down each incident including the date, time, place, and behavior. Keep the log in a safe place.
Report the problem. If the harassment doesn't stop, report it to a supervisor or department that deals with sexual harassment. It is important that the employer is informed and has the opportunity to stop the harassment.
Do not allow the solution to adversely affect you, for example, transfer you to another class.

Guidelines for reporting sexual harassment at SCSU:

A sexual harassment complaint alleging violation of the University Sexual Harassment policy should be directed to the following university official:

Marcia Smith-Glasper, director of Diversity and Equity, at (203) 392-5899 or at smithglaspm1@southernct.edu

The Women's Center is able to provide assistance and guidance. Individuals will be encouraged to file a sexual harassment complaint.

**You may also contact the following external agencies to file a complaint:

The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO), West Central Region Office, Rowland State Government Center, 55 West Main Street, Suite 210, Waterbury, CT 06702-2004

PHONE: (203) 805-6530, FAX: (203) 805-6559, TDD: (203) 805-6579

Web site: http://www.state.ct.us/chro/

Connecticut law requires that a formal written complaint be filed with the commission. If you need additional information contact:

The Permanent Commission on the Status Of Women, 18-20 Trinity Street, Hartford, CT 06106

PHONE: (860) 240-8300, FAX: (860) 240-8314

Email: pcsw@po.state.ct.us

Web site: http://ctpcsw.com/