Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is unwanted attention at school that is sexual in nature. It affects both boys and girls, but boys are the primary perpetrators. It is considered to be a form of bullying. Sometimes people will try to ignore it, hoping that the perpetrator will go away.

Ten ways to stop sexual harassment:

1. Say "Stop!" Don't ignore the behavior. Tell the harasser it is harassment.
2. Get emotional support from an adult that you trust. It could be a teacher, friend, parent, or counselor.
3. Document every harassing incident: what, where, when, how, witnesses.
4. Look for evidence. Are there other victims of same harasser?
5. Write the harasser. Describe the incident and tell them to stop.
6. Create a written record. Keep a copy away from school or work.
7. Document your job or school performance. Note your evaluations or grades.
8. Use school or work grievance procedure.
9. File a charge.
10. Call Moving to End Sexual Assault 24 Hour support line 303-443-7300

Saying no to sexual harassment and making it clear that the behavior is unwanted is a very important step in getting the behavior to stop. Without saying no, it can be very difficult to press charges and take action if the harasser does not stop. Keep in mind however, that there are very legitimate reasons why someone may not feel free to say no (possible job loss, bad grade, further harassment, other consequences). If it is unwanted, it is still sexual harassment even if you don't say no.

How to prevent sexual harassment in your school:

• Work to promote positive changes in your school's educational atmosphere.
• Become familiar with your school's sexual harassment policy and learn how formal complaints are handled. Your school has a responsibility to protect you.
• Request that curriculum at all grade levels teach sexual harassment, violence prevention, and respect for others.
• Support and encourage teachers and staff to receive special training that raises their consciousness and explains what their duties are regarding sexual harassment.
• Provide resources on sexual harassment in the school library or other accessible areas.
• Contact organizations in your area that work on these issues for support/presentations. In Boulder County, call Moving to End Sexual Assault (303-443-0400) or Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (303-449-8623).
• Alert your school to particular problems, such as a teacher who acts inappropriately, or an area of the school where incidents often occur.
• Take group action. Agree to come to the aid of any person you see being harassed.
• Raise consciousness. Some ideas include:
  • Put up flyers about harassment.
  • Inform students of their rights or explain the difference between flirting and harassment.
  • Wear T-shirts with anti-harassment slogans.
  • Ask the student government to devote time to the issue.
  • Write articles for your school newspaper about sexual harassment.