1. Sexual Harassment
  2. Legal Standards for Sexual Harassment
  3. Sexual Harassment Resources by State
  4. Sexual Harassment Resources in New York

Sexual Harassment Resources in New York

Each state has a network of sexual harassment resources, with New York providing one of the most comprehensive sources of sexual harassment help. For administrative help, you turn to the New York State Division of Human Rights and for emotional support, you have several options to help you cope with mental anguish and emotional distress.

Administrative Resources

The State of New York leads the United States in enacting laws that prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace. In August of 2019, state legislators strengthened the legal protections granted to victims of sexual harassment. The New York State Human Rights Law complements the laws passed as part of the 2019 Women’s Agenda.

The State also has created a website that provides victims with numerous sexual harassment resources.

To file a sexual harassment complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights, visit the website and download a complaint form. You must have your complaint form signed by a notary public for it to be considered a valid complaint by the State of New York. The preferred method for submitting a complaint form is in person. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, you might have to submit a digital copy of your complaint form by email at complaints@dhr.ny.gov. You can call 888-392-3644 to get answers to your questions as well.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) offers a public portal where you schedule an appointment to discuss your complaint. Please note the EEOC and the State of New York have an information-sharing arrangement in place, which means if you submit a complaint with the EEOC, the New York State Division of Human Rights automatically receives a copy of it. You also can start the complaint filing process over the phone at 800-669-4000.

Emergency Resources for Victims

If you are a victim of a sex crime at work, you cannot utilize the sexual harassment resources you utilize for filing a complaint. A sex crime requires you to take action immediately by calling 911. By calling 911, you activate the emergency response system for the closest law enforcement agency. Reaching out to the proper authorities ensures you receive immediate legal and medical emergency care.

A detective interviews you to determine the validity of your charges. The detective also interviews the alleged assailant to learn more about the case. The local law enforcement agency conducts a thorough investigation that includes the collection of physical evidence. Security camera footage shot at your workplace can confirm your version of events. Receiving prompt medical care is important for your health, but it also can reveal convincing evidence that lands the alleged assailant behind bars.

Contact a lawyer to determine whether you have a persuasive enough criminal case to file charges.

Emotional Support Resources

As a victim of sexual harassment or even a sex crime, you might suffer serious emotional distress that requires you to reach out for professional help. The goal is to ensure victimization does not negatively impact your social, family, and professional lives.

Callisto

In addition to fighting against sexual assault, Callisto also supports survivors of sex crimes. The organization is known for its high-tech solutions to combat sex crimes and sexual harassment. Callisto makes sure everything you say remains confidential with the team of emotional support professionals.

Ruby’s Place

Ruby’s Place operates on the principle that victims of sex crimes need a safe place to stay until they address their emotional issues. The organization provides victims with shelter, counseling, and crisis services. Everything Ruby’s Place does for victims of sex crimes remains confidential.

The New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline for confidential sexual harassment help is 800-942-6906. If you live in New York City, call 800-621-4673. Both hotlines operate 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

Access Workplace Sexual Harassment Resources Today

You should treat your workplace sexual harassment case with a sense of urgency by contacting a discrimination lawyer. Not only can provides you with helpful legal support, but may also directs you to the types of workplace sexual harassment resources that can help you heal emotional scars.

If you are a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, fill out the Free Case Evaluation form to get connected with an attorney that takes cases in your area today.

Additional Resources