Circumstances such as these can happen to men or women and are much more likely to happen than any of us would like to think. Such unwelcome behaviors of a sexual nature are called sexual harassment, and they range from conduct that may cause discomfort, such as whistling at someone, to conduct that is physically and emotionally traumatic, such as rape. Any of these behaviors contribute to a hostile environment, a place where people don't feel safe. Harassment is a subjective experience; what feels okay to one person may not feel okay to someone else.
Sexual harassment is prohibited by federal and state law, as well as WPI policy. See page 31 of "The Campus Planner and Resource Guide" for a copy of WPI's policy regarding harassment.
What can you do if you feel you are being sexually harassed? There are many kinds of responses. The most direct way is to confront the person and ask them to stop the behavior. While this may not feel easy, it can be very effective. Sometimes harassers don't understand the impact of what they are doing because what feels okay to one person may not feel okay to someone else; the will stop when they realize that they have made someone uncomfortable. Being specific is not important. Include what behavior made you uncomfortable and when and where it occurred, as well as a request to stop the behavior. You might say, "I felt very uncomfortable when you pressed up against me last week in lab. Please don't do it anymore." Confronting someone can be easier if you bring a friend whose presence will encourage you to say what you came to say.
Another option is to write the person a letter. Again, being specific is important. Include the same information as when confronting someone in person and request that the person stop the behavior. The letter should be dated and signed, and you should keep a photocopy of the letter in case you decide to file a complaint. Mailing the letter requesting a return receipt insures that you have a record that the person received the letter.
Whether or not you confront someone, you should document incidents of harassment as well as the person's response to a confrontation or letter. This means keeping a written record of what happened, the date and time, and the names of any witnesses. Keeping a record is particularly important if you decide to file a complaint. Memories can be unreliable, and one person's word against another's is hard to weigh. However, documentation is given considerable weight when harassment cases are reviewed. To file a complaint, contact the Student Life Office.
Getting emotional support is also important. By the nature of the situation, people who have been sexually harassed are left feeling vulnerable, scared, and often angry or confused. Talking with someone you trust can help you deal with these feelings. You're not alone, and whatever you're feeling, you can get through it. Sources of emotional support could be a good friend, a family member, RA, or a counselor at the Student Development and Counseling Center.
In cases of assault or rape, you should go immediately to the Health Center or a hospital. In addition to providing emotional support, the Student Development and Counseling Center can assist you in making decisions regarding options and resources that are available to you.
We can stop the escalation of sexual harassment. Be aware of your own attitudes, biases, and behaviors and work on changing them if they seem to promote a perception of hostility. If you experience or witness sexual harassment, speak up! Through watching out for each other, we can create an environment where we can all learn, work, play, and party safely!