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Human Resources Administration Building
University of California, Davis
One Shields Avenue
Davis, CA 95616

(530) 752-0530 phone

 
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General Information

WHAT IS SEXUAL HARASSMENT?

Sexual harassment can be defined as: unwanted sexual attention in the work or learning environment. In some cases, this occurs when a person in a position of power uses that power to coerce a subordinate into providing sexual favors. The imbalance of power creates a situation in which the subordinate does not feel free to say "no." Some examples of this type of behavior include:

  • unwanted, repeated requests for dates
  • offering employment or educational benefits in exchange for personal attention
  • repeated attempts to turn a professional relationship into a personal one

In some instances of sexual harassment, there is behavior of a sexual nature in the workplace or learning environment which creates an intimidating, offensive or hostile environment that affects people's ability to do their job or learn. This behavior may occur between peers or between people with unequal power. Some examples of this type of behavior include:

  • personal comments or questions
  • sexual jokes and innuendoes
  • unwanted, repeated requests for dates
  • suggestive looks, gestures and sounds
  • sexual touching
  • posters or cartoons

Sexual harassment produces a far-reaching "ripple effect," whether it occurs on campus or at the Medical Center. Of course, the individuals directly involved are affected by the emotional, physical and often financial repercussions of sexual harassment, and the ripple effect extends to others, too. Co-workers, classmates, friends and family members can also be hurt.

Because of the ripple effect created by sexual harassment, sometimes complaints are made by a third party. This is someone who is not the direct recipient of unwanted sexual attention, but who feels that this behavior has created an offensive or intimidating environment for them.

At times, our words and actions are perceived differently from how we intend them. It is important to note that it is the impact of the behavior, not the intent, which is used to determine whether the behavior constitutes sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment may occur in other scenarios as well; the examples listed above are just some of the forms it may take. In any form, sexual harassment is illegal. It is a violation of Title Vll of the Federal Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Education Code, California State Law and the University of California Policy and Procedures. Retaliating against someone for complaining about sexual harassment is also illegal and against University policy.

Remember, everyone at UCD and UCDMC is entitled to an environment free of sexual harassment.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

If you feel that you may be experiencing sexual harassment:

  • Don't blame yourself. You have not asked for this attention.
  • Get personal support. Don't let feelings of self-doubt or confusion stop you from seeking help or speaking out. Consider talking to any of the resources listed below.
  • Act quickly. The behavior will not go away. Often the behavior escalates rather than diminishes. Also, some options for remedy expire after thirty days.
  • Keep a record. Note dates, places, times and witnesses, as well as the nature of the harassment.
  • Learn your rights and resources. Call any of the resources listed on this brochure for confidential assistance.
If you are concerned about being accused of sexual harassment:

  • Examine your own behavior: Could it be interpreted as sexual harassment, even if that's not your intent?
  • Ask yourself how you would feel if some one acted this way toward your significant other, son or daughter.
  • Learn your rights and resources. Call any of the resources listed on this brochure for confidential assistance.

WHO CAN HELP?

The Sexual Harassment Education Program serves as a resource for everyone concerned about sexual harassment. Its purpose is to prevent and conciliate problems informally and confidentially. If you need assistance or would like more information, the following resources are available:

SEXUAL HARASSMENT ANONYMOUS CALL LINE
Campus - A-CALL (530-752-2255)
UCDHS - 4-CALL (916-734-2255)

SEXUAL HARASSMENT ADVISORS
The advisors are specially trained staff and faculty who have expertise in sexual harassment laws, the UC Davis policy, and sexual harassment complaint resolution. They can conciliate informal complaints and make referrals to other campus and community resources. They also possess expertise and sensitivity in issues of gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Please call the Sexual Harassment Education Office for referral.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT EDUCATION OFFICE
Campus - (530) 752-9255
UCDHS - (916) 734-2259
Please call this office for a referral to a sexual harassment advisor, to schedule an educational presentation, or to request flyers or brochures.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
Dealing with a sexual harassment problem can be stressful, whether you have a complaint, have been accused or are otherwise involved. If you would like to speak to someone about the emotional issues that your situation brings up for you, these counseling resources may be helpful:

Academic and Staff Assistance Program (staff/faculty)
Campus - (530) 752-2727
UCDHS - (916) 734-2727

Counseling Center (students)
Campus - (530) 752-0871

The UC Davis policy on sexual harassment prohibits any form of sexual harassment as well as retaliation for bringing a complaint. UC Davis is committed to providing an environment which is free of sexual harassment for everyone who participates in University programs and activities. This commitment is in accordance with the spirit of the UC Davis Principles of Community.

Special thanks to the Status of Women at Davis Administrative Advisory Committee (SWADAAC) and to the Sexual Harassment Advisors for assisting in the production of this brochure.

Rev. 5/96

Please call (530) 752-9255 to request a copy of the brochure.