Anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in Mississippi may be able to file a claim against their employer for sexual harassment. Employers have to abide by both Federal and state laws that prohibit sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is never your fault. If you were a victim, you have the right to file a claim for damages due to sexual harassment in Mississippi.
What Mississippi laws protect against sexual harassment?
Mississippi doesn’t have a specific law against sexual harassment or discrimination at work. However, you may be protected from sexual harassment by Title VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act. Title VII says that any employer who meets the specific requirements of the law can’t discriminate against employees on the basis of their race, religion, gender, sex, or where they are from. Sexual harassment is considered to be gender-based discrimination, so it’s illegal under Title VII.
What is considered sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment in the workplace includes actions like:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Inappropriate touching
- Sexual comments or jokes
- Displaying sexual images or materials
- Making sexually suggestive gestures or sounds
- Spreading sexual rumors or gossip
- Sending inappropriate messages
- Threatening to fire someone for not engaging in sexual acts
- Creating a sexually hostile work environment
- Retaliation for reporting harassment
How is sexual harassment covered by law in Mississippi?
The state of Mississippi has no specific laws that protect workers from sexual harassment. However, if you are a victim of sexual harassment in Mississippi, you may be able to file a claim against your employer for violating Title VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act.
Title VII applies to:
- Private employers with 15 or more employees.
- Federal, state, and local government employers.
- Employment agencies.
- Labor unions with 15 or more members.
- Apprenticeship programs and training programs.
Where to file a workplace sexual harassment claim in Mississippi
If you experienced sexual harassment in Mississippi, you can file a Federal sexual harassment claim against your employer with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if your employer meets the Federal standard for Title VII coverage. You can file an EEOC complaint online or over the phone. You can also visit an EEOC office if you need help with your complaint.
How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim in Mississippi?
The law limits the amount of time that you have to file a complaint with the EEOC. Your complaint must be filed within 180 days or you lose your right to file a complaint.
Getting help filing a sexual harassment claim in Mississippi
Filing a successful sexual harassment claim in Mississippi can be tough. An experienced Mississippi sexual harassment lawyer can help you navigate the claim process, gather evidence, and help you understand how the claim process works.
A sexual harassment attorney can also help you get the most damages for your claim. They can represent you in court if necessary, negotiate on your behalf, and help you get all of the compensation you deserve for what happened to you.
