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Sexual Harassment

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Sexual Harassment is unwelcomed, gender-based verbal or physical conduct that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive and objectively offensive that it deprives someone of educational or employment access, benefits, and/or opportunities and is based on power differentials. It is the creation of a hostile environment or retaliation. Sexual harassment is in violation of the Student Sexual Misconduct Policy and the Faculty/Staff Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Harassment does not have to be of sexual nature, however, and can include offensive remarks about a person’s sex. Harassment is illegal when it is so frequent or severe that it creates a hostile or offensive academic or work environment or when it results in an adverse academic (such as receiving a lower grade) or employment decision (such as being fired or demoted)

The following activities may be considered sexual harassment when repeated and/or severe:

  • Unwanted touching
  • Sexual advances or propositions
  • Pressure for sexual activity
  • Comments about a person’s clothing, body, or personal appearance
  • Sexually suggestive messages, letters, posters, or pictures
  • Flirting

It is also important to make sure that you take care of your personal safety. Here are a few things to do:

  • Tell others about the harassment and ask them to assist you
  • If possible, avoid being alone with the person/people that are sexually harassing you
  • Make sure to document the behavior and report it especially if you believe that it is getting worse and you feel threatened.

If you feel that you are experiencing sexual harassment, Â鶹ԭ´´ encourages you to seek help and report the incident.

Reporting

Visit our Title IX at Â鶹ԭ´´ page to learn more about the Title IX investigation and your rights.

If you are or have been harassed by a faculty or staff person, please contact Dr. DeSean E. Coleman at (815) 836-5597 or dcoleman5@lewisu.edu to file a report.

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