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Workplace Anti-Harassment in the Government Relations Profession

WGR works to empower its members, Task Forces and Committees, as well as external partners and elected officials to combat harassment and hostile work environments by: educating members on available resources related to knowing their rights, reporting harassment, and navigating hostile work environments; and cultivating an environment of professional support for members who experience harassment and/or a hostile work environment.

In June 2018, WGR conducted a survey of its membership to better understand the culture, type, and prevalence of sexual harassment in their work environment. Among the findings:

  • Of those who experienced sexual harassment in the work environment, 66% said it negatively affected their career;
  • 65% of respondents said they have or believe they have witnessed sexual harassment in their work environment;
  • 83% of respondents who work or lobby on Capitol Hill are unsure of or do not know their legal rights for reporting sexual harassment; and
  • 84% of respondents said that fear of retaliation might keep them from reporting an incident of sexual harassment in their work environment.

As a result, WGR has pulled together the following resources to assist its members in understanding and responding to these issues.  We will be regularly updating this website with additional resources. 

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Learn More About The Issue

Many people have questions about the definition of harassment, and how to be a good ally to a friend or colleague experiencing a difficult situation in her work environment. Here are great links to learn more about these issues:

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Know Your Rights

These resources provide more information about federal, state, and DC-area laws and rules that govern employer and employee behavior:

  • The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws related to harassment as well as those that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Most employers with at least 15 employees are covered by EEOC laws (20 employees in age discrimination cases). Start here: EEOC webpage with definition of Harassment 
  • Local government resources for employees in: Virginia, Maryland, DC
  • Office of Congressional Workplace Rights resources: Harassment & Discrimination page; OCWR Training and Resources
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Who Can Help

There are a number of organizations that provide support or legal assistance to individuals experiencing harassment, discrimination, or sexual violence:

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Resources for Employers

Here are resources for employers who want to ensure that their office policies and culture promote a safe and productive work environment for all employees:

Click here to Get Involved in WGR’s Work On Workplace Anti-Harassment Ad Hoc Committee

Disclaimer – These links are provided as an informational resource to WGR members.  WGR does not support/promote any of the organizations mentioned.