Harassment and discrimination can come in many forms, in various degrees of severity, and at both lower and higher levels of the workplace. Regardless of the type and severity, your subjective experience of harassment and/or discrimination matters. Even when harmful workplace behaviours or practices directed at you are unintentional, and even if they may seem harmless to the perpetrator, they still constitute harassment or discrimination if they result in your (or a bystander’s) emotional and/or psychological harm.
If you choose to do so, disclosing workplace harassment can be a difficult and sensitive process that can feel and/or be unsafe. Knowing your supports and the resources available to you, as well as the options for disclosing harassment, can make the process safer for you.
When entering a workplace, it is important to know your rights to protect and advocate for your safety. If you experience harassment or discrimination or are witness to others experiencing harassment in the workplace, the resources and disclosure options provided can support you and others in navigating these situations.