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Standing Up for Employees' Rights Against Workplace Sexual Harassment in Chicago

Workplace sexual harassment can make even the most capable employees feel powerless, devalued, and unsafe. If you’ve experienced this behavior, know that you’re not alone — and that legal protections and resources exist to support you. At Barrett & Farahany, we stand up for employees’ rights and help you fight back against sexual harassment in the workplace.

Operating from our Chicago office, we are deeply committed to representing employees and holding individuals and organizations accountable for their actions. Coupled with Chicago’s Human Rights Ordinance, which prohibits sexual harassment in all workplaces, our legal team empowers employees to seek justice and reclaim their dignity.

Standing Up for Employees' Rights Against Workplace Sexual Harassment in Chicago

What is Sexual Harassment Under the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance?

The Chicago Human Rights Ordinance defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or conduct of a sexual nature that meets any of the following criteria:

  • Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly a condition of employment.
  • Submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions.
  • The conduct substantially interferes with work performance or creates a hostile work environment.

Key points under this ordinance include:

  • Both victims and harassers can be of any gender.
  • The law applies to workplaces and employers of all sizes.

Examples of sexual harassment include:

  • Unwelcome sexually suggestive comments, gestures, emails, or pictures.
  • Physical contact of a sexual nature, such as groping or unwanted touching.
  • Requests for sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits like promotions or pay raises.
  • Threats tying employment status or workplace benefits to sexual or personal relationships.

Employers are held accountable for the actions of their supervisory and non-supervisory personnel if they neglect to take corrective measures once they become aware of the harassment. Additionally, individual harassers can also be held personally liable for their behavior.

Types of Workplace Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace generally falls into two primary categories, both of which are strictly prohibited under federal and local laws.

Types of Workplace Sexual Harassment

1. Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment

Translated as “this for that,” quid pro quo harassment involves a person in a position of power offering — or threatening to withhold — employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors.

Examples:

  • A manager promising a raise in exchange for a date.
  • An employer threatens demotion or termination if inappropriate demands are not met.

2. Hostile Work Environment

Hostile work environment harassment occurs when inappropriate conduct interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job or makes the workplace intimidating, offensive, or unwelcoming.

Examples:

  • Repeated sexual jokes or crude comments.
  • Unwanted physical advances, such as touching or groping.
  • Persistent requests for dates despite rejection.

Consequences for Violating
the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance

Chicago takes sexual harassment in the workplace seriously. Organizations and individuals found in violation of the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance face substantial consequences, including but not limited to:

  • Fines ranging from $100 to $500 for each incident, paid to the City of Chicago.
  • Damages and Attorney Fees are payable to the victim for the harm caused.
  • Mandatory Corrective Actions through injunctions requiring employers to eliminate discriminatory practices.

These penalties serve as a deterrent and emphasize the city’s commitment to maintaining safe and respectful workplace environments.

Sexual harassment text on cardboard

Why Choose Barrett & Farahany as Your Chicago Sexual Harassment Attorneys?

At Barrett & Farahany, we’re not just attorneys — we’re advocates for justice. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing harassment or repercussions for speaking out, our team is equipped to stand by your side throughout the legal process.

Here’s why Chicago employees trust us as their advocates in sexual harassment cases:

1. Proven Track Record:

With decades of experience and a long history of favorable outcomes, our team has helped countless employees across the country hold their employers and harassers accountable.

2. Driven and Diligent Representation:

We’re known for our relentless dedication and willingness to go the extra mile to deliver results, because we know what’s at stake for you.

3. Client-Focused Approach:

We pride ourselves on treating every case with the care and respect it deserves. Your voice and experience matter to us, and we’re here to ensure they’re heard.

4. Local Experience:

Being based in Chicago gives us a nuanced understanding of the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance and the legal protections specific to Illinois.

Fighting workplace sexual harassment is about more than obtaining legal remedies. It’s about restoring your confidence, protecting your livelihood, and ensuring no one else has to endure the same abuse.

Your experiences, feelings, and dignity matter. If you’re enduring or have endured sexual harassment in your Chicago workplace, the time to act is now. With Barrett & Farahany, you’re not just hiring attorneys — you’re partnering with a team that will fight tirelessly for your justice and your future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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Barrett & Farahany

Georgia Office

2921 Piedmont Road
Atlanta, GA 30305
334-237-7773

Alabama Office

120 19th Street North Suite 249,
Birmingham, AL 35203
866-951-0903

Illinois Office

77 W. Wacker Dr. Suite 4500
Chicago, IL 60601
773-337-7999

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Existing Clients: 866-989-0120

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