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Sexual harassment in Boston is a severe concern and is labeled as a form of sex discrimination, which is illegal under both Massachusetts State law and federal law - Title VII. These laws protect individuals from unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. This might occur in various scenarios, including workplaces, educational institutions, and public domains.
Dealing with sexual harassment can be quite complex and stressful. You may need a lawyer to help navigate the scenario if the harassment continues after reporting it to the relevant authorities or your employer fails to address the issue properly. Legal assistance can also be crucial if you suffer retaliation for reporting the harassment, or if you have been wrongfully accused of sexual harassment.
The Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B is particularly relevant to sexual harassment in Boston. This law stipulates that employers are required to maintain a working environment free from sexual harassment. Employers, landlords, educators and other people in a position of power are obliged to take swift remedial action if sexual harassment is reported. Both quid pro quo and hostile environment types of harassment are recognized under this law. Failure to comply with these laws can result in severe consequences.
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a condition of an individual's employment or education.
Sexual Harassment can be reported to your employer or the institution where it occurred first. If the harassment continues after reporting it or the institution fails to address it, you may need to report it to relevant legal bodies such as the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
No, Massachusetts Law strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone reporting sexual harassment. If retaliation occurs, you can take legal action against the responsible parties.
Retaliation includes changes in terms, conditions, or benefits of employment or educational status because of the individual's report of sexual harassment. This might include demotion, termination, grade reductions, or any other adverse actions taken against the reporting individual.
A lawyer can provide advice on how to proceed, help to gather evidence, support you in reporting to relevant bodies, represent you in potential legal proceedings, and pursue remedies or compensation on your behalf.
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and numerous non-profit organizations provide resources for individuals dealing with sexual harassment. Law firms specializing in labor laws or sexual harassment cases can also be a good resource for advice and assistance.
If you believe you've been sexually harassed, it is recommended that you start documenting details of each incident, report the harassment according to your workplace or institution's policy, and consult a legal professional. If the harassment continues after that or if you face retaliation, you should strongly consider filing a legal complaint with appropriate authorities.
