Never ignore sexual harassment. Ignoring it will not make it go away, it will only get worse. Both males and females can be sexually harassed, and the perpetrator can be male or female and of the same or opposite gender. Every situation differs, but these general guidelines can help:

Confront the person. Let the harasser know verbally that the behavior is offensive and you want it to stop. With conviction be clear and firm. If you are not comfortable speaking to the harasser alone, take someone with you as a witness and for support. Most people will stop offensive behavior once someone points it out.

Keep records. It is very important to write down dates, times, places, and witnesses to what happened. If you receive any notes, email, or written letters from the harasser, keep them. Information that is documented can be used to support a complaint.

Seek support from others. Talk about the harassment to someone you trust, a friend, relative, co-worker, or counselor. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse. Talking about it can be helpful and a way to get emotional support, assistance, and information.

Write a letter to the harasser.
(Information was adapted and portions of this page borrowed from University of Florida Office of Equal Opportunity.)

In many cases the parties themselves can resolve the situation face-to-face. Experts believe this is effective 90 percent of the time. However, this may not be appropriate in other cases, particularly if the person being harassed has suffered physical injuries or is in some sort of danger.

People often feel powerless when experiencing sexual harassment and are reluctant to confront the harasser personally. Writing a letter directly to the harasser is another alternative.

The letter should consist of three parts:

1. A factual account of what happened - including details of dates and a description of offending behaviors.
2. A description of how you feel about what occurred - including specific feelings and your personal thoughts and opinions.
3. A statement of what you want to happen next - Most writers want the behavior to stop, but if a remedy is necessary, it should be included here.

You can have someone hand carry the letter to the harasser or mail a copy of the letter to the harasser using registered or certified mail. Be sure to keep a copy of the letter for yourself.
Click here for a sample letter.

Use the University’s Informal Complaint Resolution Procedures:

• Request an informal settlement by the Title IX/Sexual Harassment Office.
• File a formal written complaint with the Title IX/Sexual Harassment Office.
• Use the University Grievance Procedures for complaints of sexual discrimination.

You Have the Right to File a Complaint

It is your right to have your complaint heard. If you believe you have been sexually harassed you are encouraged to bring it to the attention of the Title IX/Sexual Harassment Office. You will be given answers to questions about the process and your options, advice, and/or referrals. All reports of sexual harassment, sex discrimination, and/or sexual misconduct will be responded to promptly and with appropriate disciplinary action. If you wish to file a complaint get a copy of the Sexual Harassment Complaint Resolution policy, read it and follow the procedures. Click here to obtain the Sexual Harassment Complaint Resolution policy