HOUSTON, Texas. All too often we hear about how sexual harassment has cost men their careers. What is seldom discussed are the many career opportunities women miss or lose out on because of sexual harassment. Neil Degrasse Tyson has come under fire for alleged sexual misconduct. While Forbes has been quick to discuss how these allegations are likely to cost Tyson millions of dollars in media and book deals, what often gets overlooked are the real impacts that sexual impropriety can have on women—in terms of financial losses, but also in terms of lost career opportunities.
The Atlantic reports that one woman alleges that Tyson’s behavior led to her leaving her graduate program. This is no small matter. When women leave a professional course of study, they not only miss out on earning their Ph.D., but they also lose out on the financial and professional benefits such a degree could have earned them.
Other women have reported quitting after being placed in uncomfortable situations where they have faced unwanted sexual advancements. Quitting a job suddenly can also harm a career. Unfortunately, many women are so embarrassed by what happens that they may lie about why they leave, thus further brushing the harassment into the shadows.
It can take immense bravery to speak out about sexual harassment or assault on the job. In many cases, the perpetrators are those with all the power. They are the ones with the power to promote, to hire, and to fire. Companies may sometimes protect these individuals when victims make accusations. If you are considering reporting sexual harassment, it is important to protect yourself and your interests. Moore & Associates are Houston, Texas employment lawyers who work with individuals who have faced sexual harassment or assault on the job. Our firm can review your situation and help you navigate the legal steps going forward to protect yourself from retaliation, protect your career, and protect your rights.
There may also be unintentional consequences of the #MeToo movement. As men face a reckoning, the Atlantic reports that some men are taking extreme measures to protect themselves. They are no longer going out to dinner with female colleagues. They are refusing to travel with them. They are avoiding meetings alone. These practices can harm women who are seeking mentors and who are looking for advancement.
The effects of sexual harassment and discrimination on women are many. Not only do women lose out on job opportunities, all too often they step out of fields entirely to avoid encountering abusive powerful men. Women also face backlash when they report men. If you are thinking about reporting sexual harassment, consider speaking to Moore & Associates, Houston, Texas sexual harassment lawyers who can help you understand your rights and the avenues you may have available to seek justice. As more women understand how sexual harassment and assault can stop a career in its tracks, more women are suing their attackers for lost wages and lost advancement opportunities.
Moore & Associates
440 Louisiana Street, Suite 675
Houston, TX 77002
713-581-9001
