LOWE’S CHAIN STORE SETTLES SEXUAL HARASSMENT LAWSUIT FOR $1.7 MILLION. CALL BAY AREA EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEYS IF YOU HAVE BEEN A VICTIM.
The national hardware chain-store, Lowe’s, just settled a sexual harassment lawsuit that was brought against the company earlier on. The lawsuit alleged that three former workers were subjected to a sexually hostile work environment. In addition to facing sexual harassment, the lawsuit alleged that after complaining, the employees were retaliated against. In addition to agreeing to a $1.7 million settlement, Lowe’s agreed to institute comprehensive training on sexual harassment prevention in Lowe’s stores in several states.
If you think you have been a victim of sexual harassment, you should be aware that there are two basic types of harassment. The first type of sexual harassment is “quid-pro-quo” harassment. This phrase is Latin for “a trade.” This type of sexual harassment occurs when an employer asks for sexual favors in exchange for perks at work. For example, if your boss offers you a promotion or raise if you sleep with him, this is an example of quid-pro-quo harassment.
The second type of sexual harassment is known as the “hostile environment.” This type of sexual harassment is more subtle and it occurs when you are made to feel uncomfortable because of your sex. The behavior that made you feel uncomfortable must not only be offensive, but it must also be severe and pervasive. For example, if you and a coworker enjoy exchanging offensive sexual jokes, this is not harassment. However, if you are continually subjected to listening to co-workers exchange sexual jokes that make you feel uncomfortable, this may be sexual harassment.
If you would like to know more about sexual harassment, and if you would like to find out if you have been a victim of sexual harassment, call the experienced lawyers at Greenberg & Rudman LLP for a free consultation. You can reach us at 1-800-ALAWPRO or 1-800-252-9776. You can also visit us at www.discriminationattorney.com to learn more.
