What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. It is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, non-verbal, electronic, physical or other conduct or communication of a sexual nature when:
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct or communication is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of instruction, employment, or participation in any University activity or benefit;
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct or communication is used as a basis for decisions affecting employment, education, living arrangements, or participation in a University program or activity; or
- Such conduct or communication is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent, AND objectively offensive as to have the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment that unreasonably interferes with a person’s educational experience, working conditions, or participation in a University program or activities so as to effectively deny equal access to the University’s resources and opportunities (“hostile environment”).
Sexual harassment occurs when a person feels he/she needs to submit to sexual advances in order to avoid negative consequences regarding academics, work or campus life.
Just a few examples of sexual harassment that can be unwelcome, repeated or severe:
- Flirting
- Unwanted touching
- Sexually suggestive messages, letters, posters, or pictures
- Comments about a person’s clothing, his or her body, or personal appearance
- Sexual advances or propositions
- Repeated requests for dates
- Pressure for sexual activity.
Other Concerns:
If you are experiencing other behaviors, they may still be considered sexual harassment. If you or someone you know has been sexually harassed, please know that assistance is available. The University wants you to seek help and report incidents of sexual harassment.
Tell others about the sexual harassment and ask them to assist you.
If you are able, avoid being alone with those who are sexually harassing you.
Note escalating behavior. Trust your instincts and report the behavior, especially if you think that it’s getting worse, and/or your personal safety is endangered.
Help is available from many resources on and off campus. Go to the reporting page for more information.
Consider talking with a counselor who is trained to assist you with the emotional impact of sexual harassment. You can contact the Counseling Center at N.C. A&T, 336-334-7727.
You have a right to stay in school. The Counseling Center at N.C. A&T has resources to help you get through tough semesters, or options if you are considering taking a break from campus. If you are having trouble attending classes or completing your academic assignments, papers, and/or exams, contact the Dean of Students Office, 336-334-7791.
If you are or have been harassed by a student, consider making a report to the Title IX Coordinator, 336-285-3770. Sexual harassment violates the Student Code of Conduct. Visit our Title IX page to learn more about the Title IX investigation process and your rights and responsibilities in that process.
If you are, or have been, harassed by a professor, staff person, or other employee of the university, consider making a report to the Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Legal Affairs, 336-285-3770.
