Sexual Harassment at Workplace Functions: Your Rights

Workplace events—like office parties, conferences, and team outings—are meant to encourage collaboration and strengthen professional relationships. However, in some cases, these settings create opportunities for inappropriate behavior, including sexual harassment. If a work-sponsored event made you feel unsafe or uncomfortable due to harassment, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options.

At Kaplan Employment Law, our experienced Florida sexual harassment attorneys fight to protect employees. If you’ve been harassed at a company-sponsored event, you may have legal grounds for a claim. We’re here to guide you through the legal process and help you seek justice.

What Is Sexual Harassment at a Workplace Function?

Sexual harassment at workplace functions occurs when inappropriate, unwelcome behavior happens in work-related settings, including office parties, networking events, company retreats, or conferences. These incidents often involve blurred professional boundaries, alcohol, or power imbalances.

Common examples include:

• Unwanted advances or inappropriate comments at office parties.
• Unnecessary touching, suggestive remarks, or explicit jokes at team outings.
• Requests for sexual favors in exchange for promotions or career opportunities.

Why Does Harassment Often Occur at Workplace Functions?

Work-sponsored events often take place in relaxed settings with alcohol, informal conversations, and blurred workplace boundaries. These factors increase the risk of inappropriate behavior. Additionally, power dynamics between managers and employees can lead to situations where employees feel pressured or intimidated.

Examples of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Functions

Harassment at work-sponsored events can take many forms. Here are some common examples:

Inappropriate Behavior at Social Gatherings

At events like holiday parties or team happy hours, inappropriate behavior may include:

• Making sexually suggestive comments or jokes.
• Unwanted touching, such as hugs, groping, or assault.
• Sharing explicit photos or videos in person or via text.

Sexual Harassment at Conferences or Seminars

Professional gatherings like conferences or seminars can also lead to harassment, including:

• Persistent advances or inappropriate remarks during networking events.
• Suggesting a “private meeting” for professional discussions that turns personal.
• Invites to hotel rooms, drinks after events, and requests for sex.

Quid Pro Quo Harassment in Event Settings

At workplace functions, individuals in positions of power may use the setting to exploit employees. For instance:

• A manager offering a promotion in exchange for sexual favors.
• Threatening demotion or termination for refusing advances.

If you’ve experienced any of these behaviors, consulting a Florida sexual harassment lawyer can help you explore your options.

Legal Protections for Employees at Work Functions

Both federal and Florida laws protect employees from sexual harassment, even when it occurs outside of regular work hours or offsite:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits sexual harassment in all work-related settings, including events.
• The Florida Civil Rights Act ensures additional protections and allows employees to file claims with the Florida Commission on Human Relations or the EEOC.

Employers are responsible for ensuring that workplace functions are free from harassment. Failure to address complaints or take preventative measures can make them legally liable.

How to Prove Sexual Harassment at Workplace Functions

Proving harassment at a work-sponsored event requires gathering evidence and demonstrating how the behavior impacted your work environment.

Evidence You Need to Build a Sexual Harassment Claim

Key evidence includes:

• Photos or Videos: Visual documentation of inappropriate behavior at events.
• Emails or Messages: Communications related to the event that contain suggestive or inappropriate content.
• Incident Notes: Detailed records of what happened, including dates, times, and individuals involved.

Establishing Employer Responsibility

Employers can be held liable for harassment at work-sponsored events if they fail to act. To strengthen your claim:

• Follow Reporting Procedures: Report harassment as outlined in your employee handbook (HR, supervisor, or ethics hotline).
• Cooperate With Investigations: Provide any evidence and fully cooperate with HR or investigators.
• Show Lack of Corrective Action: If your employer ignored or failed to investigate, this may indicate liability.
• Document Retaliation: If you were fired, demoted, or faced negative consequences after reporting, you may have a stronger retaliation claim.

If your employer failed to protect you, a Florida sexual harassment attorney can help you explore legal options.