What is Harassment?

 

Definition of Harassment:

Harassment can take a variety of subtle and overt forms that involve comments or conduct that are known, or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome (Human Rights Code).

Sexual Harassment: any unwanted attention, physical, verbal or non-verbal of a sexual nature, like remarks about your looks or personal life, sometimes they may come in forms of a compliment.

Racial Harassment: any action that expresses racial hatred and stereotypes –it can be obvious or subtle.

Examples:

• racial, religious or ethnic cultural jokes

• name calling-the use of names or titles which are meant to demean or degrade

• insults/slurs meant to demean or degrade

• graffiti or written communication which implies inferiority of a particular group of people

• treats, bullying and physical intimidation or harassment

• unwanted questions or comments about an employees or a student’s private life

Harassment is doing or saying things to make you feel uncomfortable, as soon as you feel uncomfortable then it is harassment.

Harassment can happen in or outside of the workplace. Ontario Human Rights Code states that every person who is an employee has a right to freedom from harassment in the workplace by the employer or agent of the employer or by another employee because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or handicap.

What to do: Report it to your teacher, parent, supervisor, know your rights, you do not need to accept it!

 

Assignment

Analyze the following Harassment Scenarios. Evaluate each and determine if they are examples of harassment. Answer the questions and submit them to your teacher. Select one of the scenarios and share with your peers what steps you would take in dealing with the harassment.

Submit your work

Tips for Dealing with Harassment

1. Write It Down Keep a detailed journal of what occurred with as many details as possible. Include the date and time.

2. List Witnesses If there are witnesses, compile their names.

3. Use Your Voice Tell the offensive person his/her behavior is not acceptable.

4. Seek Help Always tell your co-op teacher if you experience harassment in the co-op experience.

5. Don’t Rise To The Occasion Choose not to react to the bullying or harassing behavior. (Quite often, bullying is power through aggression).

Source: adapted from Work It Daily