Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment occurs when a target receives any unwanted sexual attention or behavior by a harasser, for example: graphic or sexual comments about a person's body, demanding sexual favours and physical contact. A positive interaction is mutual; sexual harassment is a non-mutual experience that makes the target feel embarrassed and uncomfortable. Sexual harassment is illegal and should not be tolerated by the target; the harasser may not stop after being asked. It can happen anywhere at anytime and is used to gain power and control over a person. There are three types of sexual harassment: traditional, peer to peer and contrapower. All three can impact a person's well being. It is important to remember that sexual harassment is always the harasser's fault and action can be taken to make it stop. First, don't ignore it, ask the harasser to stop, then contact a Human Rights Office to file a complaint.