Thousands of working women report experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace every year. These numbers are shocking and demonstrate just how important it is for employers to create a safe and welcoming environment for all employees. Our West Virginia employment team has put together a list of four workplace sexual harassment statistics that will shock you.
1. 81% Of Women Have Experienced Sexual Harassment
A 2,000-person national survey by Stop Street Harassment (SSH) reports that 81% of women and 43% of men report experiencing some form of sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime. Of those women, 25% say they were harassed on the job.
2. Nearly 3 in 4 Sexual Harassment Claims in the Workplace Go Unreported.
Though the #MeToo and #TimeIsUp movements have given part to a national conversation about sexual harassment, it is still an underreported issue in the workplace. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reports that nearly three out of four individuals who experience workplace sexual harassment never report it to a supervisor, manager, or union representative.
This is likely because many victims feel they will not be believed or that reporting the incident will negatively impact their careers. Others may feel like they are partially to blame for the harassment or that it is not worth making a fuss over. However, it is important to remember that no one deserves to be sexually harassed at work and that you have rights under state and federal law.
3. 71% of female restaurant workers had been sexually harassed at least once during their time in the restaurant industry.
The national survey conducted by Social Science Research Solutions (SRSS) found that 71% of female restaurant workers have been sexually harassed at least once while working in the restaurant industry. This percentage is the highest of any industry reporting statistics on sexual harassment.
4. 55% of Sexual Harassment Victims Experience Retaliation
A report released in 2020 by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) shows that 55.8% of the complaints received relate to retaliation after reporting a sexual harassment incident. Retaliation often discourages victims from reporting, fostering a toxic work culture. Retaliation in the workplace may come in the form of a demotion, exclusion from staff activities, or unfavorable reassignment.
Bailess Law Firm PLLC is Here For You
These statistics show a snapshot of the prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace. If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, our team at is here to provide you with the support you need. Our warm and caring attorneys will listen without judgment and help you understand your legal rights and options. We can help you hold your employer accountable and get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at (304) 841-0037 or through our online contact form.