As Durham employment lawyers at Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, P.A., we’re passionate about supporting and defending those who have been victimized by sexual harassment, particularly in the workplace. Attorney Michael Kornbluth recently spoke in a #MeToo movement panel discussion at Employment Law 2019, a seminar hosted by the North Carolina Advocates for Justice.
Significance of the #MeToo Movement
Under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, workplace sexual harassment is unequivocally illegal. Whether it comes in the form of unwanted comments about your appearance or physical advances, sexual harassment has a very detrimental impact on your emotional and mental health.
In spite of what the law says, however, a 2018 study by the UC San Diego Center on Gender Equity and Health found that up to 81% of women and 43% of men may have experienced sexual harassment and/or assault during their lifetimes. In the workplace, the uniquely gendered nature of this harassment becomes even more apparent: Up to 74.4% of all 2014 sexual harassment claims filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) were filed by women.
Statistics like these are just part of the reason our Durham employment law firm supports the goals of the #MeToo movement, which has illuminated decades of unfair, gendered treatment towards women. Although it’s clear that sexual harassment impacts men and women alike, it’s important to discuss the ways in which our workplace cultures often silence women in particular – and the #MeToo movement has helped our nation to begin having these difficult conversations.
Creating a Fairer Workplace Environment
If you’re currently dealing with sexual harassment in your workplace, our team can advocate for your rights with the EEOC. Although some employers may try to diminish the seriousness of your sexual harassment claims, we can help you take a stand against abusive behavior, and get the full compensation you’re owed under the law. By helping the victims of harassment to find a voice, it’s our hope that sexual harassment will eventually be eradicated, thus creating safer and fairer workplaces for all.
Ready to speak with Attorney Michael Kornbluth or another member of our skilled employment law team? Contact us today at (919) 336-1932 for a free consultation.