HUD (the Department of Housing and Urban Development) recognizes Fair Housing month by launching a campaign against sexual harassment. The campaign focuses on protecting people from harassment by property owners, maintenance workers, managers, or other residents. Also, it helped to educate the public regarding the behaviors and actions that constitute sexual harassment and the support HUD offers to people who experience harassment.
HUD Secretary Ben Carson stated that “While any form of discrimination stains the very fabric of our nation, HUD is especially focused on protecting the right of individuals to feel safe and secure in their homes, free from sexual harassment or unwanted sexual advances. This theme, which is a call to action, is an appeal to those who experience discrimination, particularly survivors of sexual harassment, to contact HUD for help.”
In this article, let’s consider a few rules to minimize the risk of sexual harassment claims.
Establish a Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Sexual Harassment
It is crucial to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment. It needs to be stated clearly that sexual harassment of any kind will not be tolerated and violations of the policy will bring immediate disciplinary actions.
Sexual harassment incorporates unwelcome sexual conduct, verbally or through actions toward guests, applicants, prospects, residents, and other visitors, regardless of their gender. It is important to reinforce that sexual harassment is prohibited. The policy should support anyone who believes that he/she has been subjected to sexual harassment to register a complaint. Also, explain how sexual harassment charges are handled.
Don’t Ignore Sexual Harassment Complaints
It is important to consider things seriously if someone raises a complaint of sexual harassment. If you get a report from a resident about questionable conduct, it is necessary to investigate and resolve the issue as quickly as you can. Explain the sexual harassment policy to the victim and assure that the investigation will be fair and unbiased. Listen to them carefully, be courteous, and take detailed notes.
Take Immediate Action to Halt Harassment
After finding that a sexual harassment complaint is justified, it is important to take appropriate disciplinary action against the accused. Depending on the severity of the mischief, the disciplinary action may involve a suspension, reprimand, or even termination.
Do Not Retaliate Against Anyone Complaining About Sexual Harassment
It is important to be on guard against a retaliation claim as a separate offense under fair housing law is there about dealing with residents who have complained about sexual harassment. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), it is unlawful to coerce, threaten, intimidate, or intervene with anyone who has exercised the rights.
To know more about HUD’s rules on sexual harassment, attend the Compliance Prime webinar.
