Sexual harassment protections are in place to ensure that workers can go to work each day confident they can feel safe and free from sexual harassment in their workplaces. Both lawsuits against America’s fast food giant and complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission have been filed by a little over 2 dozen women asserting they were sexually harassed while working in the fast food restaurants. The allegations span 20 U.S. cities, including restaurants and the corporate office, and include assertions of harassing behaviors such as lewd comments by supervisors, propositions for sex, indecent exposure and groping.
The current charges against McDonald’s are part of an overall effort to address harassment and other workplace concerns including wages. Some of the sexual harassment claims were made in California. In total, greater than 50 charges and lawsuits have been filed by McDonald’s employees over the last 3 years. McDonald’s is the second largest employer in the U.S.
It is important for workers to understand that they have the right to a safe workplace, that sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal and that retaliation is also prohibited. Legal resources and options are available to workers experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace to help them fight back and keep them protected. There are different categories of sexual harassment but it is all prohibited.
Victims suffering sexual harassment in their workplaces may be able to bring a claim for damages or access other resources available to help them. These valuable resources can help workers ensure their workplaces are free of sexual harassment and are safe places to work each day.
