Have you ever had to sit through a coworker talking about their own body or sexual exploits, even when no one asked? It might be framed as a joke or brushed off as “just how they are,” but that kind of commentary doesn’t belong in the workplace. When someone makes repeated or inappropriate references to their sexual attributes, it can create a hostile and uncomfortable environment for everyone around them.
Under New York City law, this kind of behavior may be considered sexual harassment — even if it’s not aimed at you directly. The bar for proving harassment in NYC is lower than under federal or state law, and employees have strong legal protections. At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we help workers take action when inappropriate conduct crosses the line. Contact us today to consult with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer.
What This Form of Harassment Looks Like
Sexual harassment isn’t limited to direct advances or unwanted touching. It can include crude or inappropriate references to one’s own body or sex life, especially when these comments are made in front of colleagues or during work hours. Examples include:
- Talking about one’s sexual performance or preferences
- Boasting about physical attributes
- Making jokes about body parts or personal encounters
- Repeatedly referencing sexual topics, even if “not directed” at a coworker
This type of behavior often slips under the radar because it’s written off as humor or oversharing. But over time, it can make the workplace feel uncomfortable, objectifying, or even unsafe, especially for those who fear the consequences of speaking u.
NYC Laws Offer Stronger Protections
New York City’s Human Rights Law provides some of the broadest workplace protections in the country. Unlike federal law, which requires harassment to be “severe or pervasive,” NYC law only requires that the behavior be unwanted and more than trivial. One inappropriate comment may be enough to support a claim if it affects your work environment.
Additionally, the law protects everyone in the workplace, not just full-time employees. That includes:
- Interns
- Independent contractors
- Freelancers
- Temporary or part-time workers
If you’ve been exposed to sexualized commentary from a coworker, supervisor, or even a client, you may have a right to take legal action. Lipsky Lowe has extensive experience representing NYC workers under the city’s harassment laws.
How to Respond if You’re Exposed to This Behavior
If someone in your workplace is making inappropriate sexual remarks about themselves, start by documenting what you’ve heard. Keep a dated record of:
- What was said or done
- Who was present
- How it made you feel or affected your work
- Whether you reported it and how your employer responded
You don’t need to confront the individual or call them out in the moment, especially if it doesn’t feel safe. Reporting the conduct in writing to HR or your supervisor is often the best next step. Include facts, not feelings, and save a copy for your records.
If nothing changes or if you’re treated differently for reporting the behavior, you may have a legal claim. You also don’t have to wait until the behavior becomes severe — NYC law doesn’t require it to escalate.
When to Contact an Attorney
If you’ve tried to address the issue internally and your employer hasn’t responded—or if the behavior is ongoing and making your work environment toxic—it’s time to speak with a sexual harassment attorney. Many employees worry that their complaints will be dismissed as overreacting, especially if the conduct isn’t “direct.” But improper sexual remarks don’t need to be aimed at you to have an impact.
Don’t Put Up With Inappropriate Remarks
Everyone deserves a workplace free from harassment, including the kind that hides behind jokes or offhand comments. If you’ve had enough of inappropriate sexual remarks in your office, you don’t need to stay silent. Lipsky Lowe is here to help protect your rights and stop sexual attribute harassment. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.