Workers Fear Retaliation After Reporting Sexual Harassment

 Posted on May 16, 2025 in Sexual Harassment

A 2020 report found that a staggering 72 percent of those who reported sexual harassment experienced some type of retaliation. That retaliation could be a false write-up, demotion, denial of a promotion, or termination. As many as 55 percent of those who reported sexual harassment and identified the perpetrator said the perpetrator of the sexual harassment was their supervisor.

Two in five workers who reported sexual harassment said that there were no adverse repercussions for the harasser. More than one in seven people were threatened with legal action or even physical harm if they reported the sexual harassment. About 20 percent of those surveyed said that the sexual harassment they experienced had long-term, negative financial and mental health consequences.

It takes a great deal of courage to come forward and report sexual harassment in the workplace, especially when doing so can leave them with a destroyed career or retaliation at work for reporting the harassment. While sexual harassment is, thankfully, no longer something that is hidden in the shadows, it remains an uphill battle for workers to report the harassment without significant adverse repercussions.

If you have faced sexual harassment in the workplace and were retaliated against after reporting the harassment, or if you are currently facing sexual harassment and are unsure of what you need to do, you need a strong legal advocate by your side. An experienced Wheaton, IL sexual harassment lawyer can answer all your questions, help you determine the best course of action, and work hard on your behalf for the best outcome possible.

Is Retaliation Illegal After Reporting Sexual Harassment?

The  Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) protects workers from discrimination and retaliation. If an employee reports sexual harassment and subsequently experiences adverse employment actions, he or she could have a legal case, especially following a wrongful termination. Organizations that foster – or at least do not discourage – bullying and aggression are more likely to have managers who abuse power and retaliate when a sexual harassment claim is made.

Other factors that increase the likelihood of retaliation after a report of sexual harassment include:

• The culture of management is overtly authoritarian.
• Administrative policies that discourage retaliation are not in place.
• Organizations that prize rank and organizational levels
• An office setup that allows an individual accused of sexual harassment to isolate the accuser
• A structure and reward system that promotes competition
• A company that has high levels of task-related conflicts

Regardless of why the retaliation is taking place, it is unacceptable and illegal.

What Should You Do if You Are Being Retaliated Against After Reporting Sexual Harassment?

Victims of retaliation must thoroughly document the dates, times, places, and details of every retaliatory action, including witnesses, evidence, or communications supporting the claim. Keep copies of work history, achievements, pay stubs, and any performance reviews both before and after the harassment was reported.

Notify the immediate supervisor, the human resources department, or another person within the organization, via e-mail, asking them to stop the sexual harassment. Most organizations have a handbook detailing policies and procedures for reporting harassment. If the employer fails to address or resolve the issue, a formal complaint can be filed with the IDHR and the EEOC.

Consult an Experienced Sexual Harassment Lawyer

A lawyer can answer questions, explain the options and remedies, and ensure that the individual’s rights are fully protected. If the victim of sexual harassment and the attorney agree that a lawsuit is the best course of action, the attorney will prepare and file the lawsuit, representing the individual in negotiations, litigation, mediation, or arbitration as he or she seeks compensation and other relief for the harm suffered.  

Contact a DuPage County, IL Sexual Harassment Attorney

The best step you can take after experiencing retaliation for reporting sexual harassment is to speak to a knowledgeable Wheaton, IL sexual harassment lawyer from Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC. Our attorneys offer highly skilled, compassionate representation. MKFM Law will handle your sexual harassment claim aggressively while addressing all your concerns with dignity and respect. Call 630-665-7300 to schedule your initial attorney meeting.