The #MeToo movement has dominated headlines lately, but what has received less coverage is the adverse after effects it may be having on women. In an effort to avoid claims of harassment, employers may treat women differently, and this can lead to claims of discrimination.
A recent article in Bloomberg reported that men working in positions of power on Wall Street have started avoiding business dinners with female employees and worrying about taking on mentorship roles with them. As the article points out, the fear of false accusations is leading to practices that in the end may not just hurt women, but lead “right into a sexual discrimination complaint.”
What can you do?
If you are an employee, document the specific ways you have been treated differently from your male counterparts and the adverse employment actions which have resulted. Our office is experienced in both harassment and discrimination, and we understand the anxiety that these issues can create. Call us or fill out our online intake form, and we will contact you within one business day to discuss your case.
If you are an employer, make sure you do not use gender as a basis for any decisions or practices. For example, if you decide to have only “open door” one-on-one meetings, make sure this applies to meetings with both males and females.
