HRO - Sexual Harassment: General Information

Sexual Harassment: General Information

What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment may include but is not limited to
If you are being harassed
Be aware of your actions
Where to go for help

What is sexual harassment?
Sexual Harassment is an attempt by one person to assert power over another person.
Sexual harassment is a violation of an individual's rights. The Harassment/Discrimination Policy and Procedure of Queen's University defines sexual harassment as:

Conduct or comment of a sexual nature which is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome. This includes, but is not limited to:
Sexual solicitation, advances, remarks, suggestive comments or gestures. The display of sexually suggestive pictures, posters, objects or graffiti. Physical contact of a sexual nature (including sexual assault as defined under the Criminal Code of Canada). Sexual conduct that interferes with a person's dignity or privacy such as voyeurism and exhibitionism.

Consulting with an advisor does not mean that you are lodging a complaint. Any reprisal for consulting an advisor or for pursuing a complaint in itself constitutes sexual harassment. The conduct of members of the Queen's community, whether it occurs on or off campus, is subject to the university's Harassment/Discrimination Policy and Procedure.

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Sexual harassment may include but is not limited to:

unwarranted touching
suggestive remarks
verbal abuse of a sexual nature
compromising invitations
demands for sexual favours
sexual assault

It is not:

a hug between friends
a mutual flirtation or a relationship of mutual consent

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If you are being harassed:

If you feel threatened physically call Campus Security at 533-6111
Do not ignore it. It will not go away
Do not blame yourself. You are not responsible for someone's harassing behaviour
If possible tell the person clearly and firmly that you find their behaviour offensive
Tell someone you trust. Sharing your concerns may help you feel less isolated
Keep a written record of all incidents: including the dates, times, locations and witnesses
The Human Rights Office and the sexual harassment advisors are available to listen or to help you with a complaint
If you are a member of a union, you may wish to contact your union representative for assistance.

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Be aware of your actions:

Be sensitive to other peoples feelings and listen carefully to what they are saying to you.
Remember that even if your intention was not to harass, the effect of your behaviour and actions may in fact be perceived as harassing
Remember that the physical contact which you intend as friendly and affectionate, may not be interpreted that way by someone else.
Remember that no means "NO", and that persistent advances constitutes harassment

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Where to go for help

Sexual harassment advisors can provide you with advice and support, or they can refer you to other available services. They are able to assist with informal procedures, formal complaints and with training and educational workshops. Confidentiality will be maintained. For further information, or to obtain a copy of the Queen's Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Procedure contact a sexual harassment advisor.

For further information, contact:

HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICE
BUREAU DES
DROITS DE LA PERSONNE
Old Medical Building
Queen's University
Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6

Telephone: (613)533-6886
Fax: (613)533-6576
TDD: (613)533-2755

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