Workplace sexual harassment includes unwanted verbal, visual or physical behaviours that are based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression such as:

• Comments about someone’s body or their sexuality
• Sexist jokes and language
• Demanding dates or sexual favours
• Sexually explicit bragging (“locker room talk”)
• Intrusive questions about someone’s gender identity or body parts
• Using sexist or homophobic language or any unwanted  behaviour that targets someone’s gender identity or sexuality
• Displaying sexual images (such as pornography)
• Sending someone unwanted sexual images, text messages, or emails
• Unnecessary physical contact, including unwanted touching
• Invading personal space
• Sexually suggestive gestures
• Sexual assault

Sexual harassment can and does impact people of all genders, sexualities, and races.
However, sexual harassment disproportionately impacts women, racialized workers, 2SLGBTQ+ workers, low-income workers, and newcomers.

If you work in Ontario, even as a volunteer, or an intern, you are protected against workplace sexual harassment. This applies to workers who have quit or lost their jobs. We can provide you with free summary legal advice and information on your rights and your employer’s responsibilities to protect you from harassment.