I was sexually harrassed at work in June. I filed a complaint through HR. The individual who harrassed me got to keep his job and now my work environment has become toxic. I am currently looking for another job

9 Comments

1. misskelleypJuly 18,2024 at 5:32PM UTC

   file a retaliation claim with your local EEOC. But know that you still need to find a new job.

2. AnonymousJuly 18,2024 at 5:35PM UTC

   I can't for the life of me understand how people get away with sexual harassment (or any kind of harassment for that matter) only getting a slap on the wrist. Usually if someone doesn't know well enough not to do it in the first place or just doesn't care , it's almost sure they will continue their behavior. I'm in the same boat. It got to the point that I couldn't go in without getting panic attacks. I ended up having to take FAMLI for my mental health as I was breaking down so often it was affecting my motivation and performance. I have also been diagnosed with CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Major Depression, and anxiety disorder even prior to that so the work situation only aggravated my symptoms. During my 12 weeks off, it has been a blessing to not have to worry about being paid but on top of that, I took that time towards the end of my pto to start looking elsewhere for a job. I have been so blessed to have found one only about one week prior to being scheduled to go back to the toxic job. Now I'm trying to figure out if I should just give them my 2 weeks notice and try to stick it out the next couple weeks or just call it.

   Anyhow, are you asking a question or just venting?

3. Sabrina AvansJuly 18,2024 at 7:04PM UTC

   Not a rant. Just fed up. I am looking for another job asap

4. AnonymousJuly 18,2024 at 7:43PM UTC

   I was in an extremely similar situation as you! It was not sexual harassment, but ethnicity based discrimination. I returned from leave when scheduled, worked the day and cleaned out my stuff discretely. Handed in my resignation letter to the boss, and badge plus copy of letter to HR at the end of my day ... No notice. ?

   Started my new job the following week and 4.5 yrs later still very happy with my current position!

5. AnonymousJuly 18,2024 at 9:11PM UTC

   Definitely give a 2 week notice. Though you may not be asking our advice on a horrific situation you were in, I saw this comment at the end and hope you do. You went through hell and I applaud you for even putting up with it and so sorry for all the damage it caused. But at least giving a 2 week notice will leave a good impression on future employers. Consider that a career history check. Notices are very favored. Congrats on your new job!

6. AnonymousJuly 18,2024 at 5:54PM UTC

   So sorry about this. I agree with your strategy. I have never seen a similar situation resolve itself.

7. AnonymousJuly 18,2024 at 9:12PM UTC

   Of course they did. This is awful. Get a new job, and get out. You did the right thing, but it's time to leave that nasty place behind and in your rear view mirror. You deserve better!

8. AnonymousJuly 19,2024 at 2:20AM UTC

   Really nothing will change. They believe it's all you.

9. AnonymousJuly 20,2024 at 5:47AM UTC

   I am sorry this is happening to you. You have done nothing to deserve this. Clearly your company has decided that this individual is too valuable to let go and because of that, you are being painted as the problem in order to make any attempt to sue to be very difficult to win. Get out as fast as you can. If you need to, go on FMLA in order to protect yourself for a few months while you look for another job. I've gone through a similar situation and can tell you it will only get worse. Sometimes things really are unfair.