Work shouldn’t feel unsafe. Yet, too many employees still face behavior that makes them anxious, humiliated, or powerless—all under the watch of employers who should know better. Whether it’s constant inappropriate comments, retaliation after reporting a problem, or unfair treatment that goes ignored, workplace harassment is real, and it’s against the law.
If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to keep enduring it. Speak confidentially with Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation today—your story matters, and your rights matter. Contact us now or call (818) 536-7776 to learn what you can do next.
What Is Workplace Harassment?
In simple terms, workplace harassment happens when someone at work mistreats you because of who you are, and that mistreatment creates an intimidating or hostile environment. The keyword here is “unwelcome.”
You don’t have to prove physical harm. You don’t have to have shouted “stop.” What matters is that the behavior is unwanted, makes you uncomfortable, and affects your ability to do your job.
Harassment can come in many forms:
- Verbal: offensive jokes, slurs, insults, or unwanted comments about your appearance, gender, race, or religion
- Physical: unwanted touching, blocking your way, or gestures that make you feel unsafe
- Visual or written: inappropriate emails, texts, or social media posts from coworkers or supervisors
- Retaliation: being punished or ignored for speaking up about harassment or discrimination
No matter how “small” it might seem at first, these acts can pile up over time—and they can take a real emotional toll.
What the Law Says (and What Changed in 2026)
Workplace harassment isn’t just a moral issue—it’s a legal one. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other laws protect employees from harassment based on factors like race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, and disability.
In recent years, laws and court decisions have continued to expand protections. By 2026, several states will have updated their harassment laws to:
- Broaden who is protected (including contractors, freelancers, and remote workers).
- Lower the threshold for what counts as a “hostile work environment,” meaning harassment doesn’t need to be “severe and pervasive” to be illegal.
- Strengthen retaliation protections for those who report misconduct.
That means you don’t need to wait until the situation becomes unbearable before it’s legally recognized as harassment.
Examples of Workplace Harassment You Might Not Realize Are Illegal
Many people don’t recognize harassment because it’s not always obvious. You might brush it off as “just part of the job,” but that mindset often protects the abuser, not the victim.
Here are a few examples that may qualify as workplace harassment:
- A supervisor who repeatedly comments on your body or clothing
- A coworker who mocks your accent, religion, or disability
- A manager who suddenly cuts your hours or passes you over for promotions after you file a complaint
- A company culture that tolerates sexist or racist jokes
- Being excluded from meetings or projects after reporting harassment
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to document what’s happening and talk to someone who can help you understand your rights.
What To Do If You’re Experiencing Harassment
Feeling intimidated or afraid to speak up is normal. Many workers fear losing their jobs or being labeled as “difficult.” But the law is on your side, and taking action doesn’t have to mean going it alone.
Here’s what you can do right now:
- Keep a record. Write down dates, times, what happened, and who was involved. Keep copies of texts, emails, or messages.
- Follow your company’s complaint procedure (if you feel safe doing so). File a report with HR or management—this helps establish a record.
- Talk to an employment attorney. They can explain your rights, guide you on the next steps, and help protect you from retaliation.
- Take care of yourself. Harassment can be emotionally exhausting—lean on supportive friends, family, or counseling resources.
Remember, you are not overreacting for wanting a safe, respectful workplace.
Why Speaking Up Matters
Every time someone stands up against harassment, it pushes workplaces closer to fairness and accountability. When you take action, you’re not just defending yourself—you’re helping create safer conditions for others who might be too scared to speak.
And if your employer retaliates? That’s illegal, too. Retaliation claims have risen sharply across the U.S. in recent years—a sign that workers are becoming more aware of their rights and refusing to be silenced.
Talk to Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation Today
No one deserves to be mistreated, disrespected, or afraid to go to work. Whether you’re facing daily harassment, subtle discrimination, or fear of retaliation, you don’t have to handle it alone.
Our employment law team listens without judgment and helps you understand your options—confidentially and clearly.
Take the first step toward protecting your future. Contact Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation today or call (818) 536-7776 for a free private consultation.