I recently started a new job, but before I could start work I had to complete five courses with an 80% passing grade. The courses were: Health & Safety 1 and 2; How to Interact with People with Disabilities 1 and 2; and Sexual Harassment. I could take all five courses in my office at my computer and if I didn’t pass a course, I could retake it.
Health & Safety 1 and 2 and How to Interact with People with Disabilities 1 and 2, I passed with flying colors, 100% on all four courses. Next I took the exam for Sexual Harassment and … I flunked. I scored only 68%. I took the course a second time and oh oh, now I only scored 63%. Third time lucky I thought and took the exam again, only to end up with 69%.
So I did what any creative student would do … I cheated. I looked up the answers and I was amazed, to say the least. In fact, as I read what is considered sexual harassment these days, I started to resemble a goldfish on dry land.
Who knew that holding a woman’s hand a fraction too long when shaking hands is considered harassment? That touching a woman’s arms or shoulder is a form of pestering, or that a man is making a nuisance of himself if he compliments a woman on her figure, outfit or hair.
I have to say though, some women shouldn’t be surprised when they get a little too much attention. They wear tops that leave little to the imagination. Then when a man stares at their assets they have the nerve to say “My eyes are up here.” Ladies, if you don’t want your boobs stared it, don’t put them on display.
The same with skirts or pants. Women wear them so tight, a credit card wouldn’t fit in the pocket. But let no man look at their derriere because then they are offended.
Me, I’ve never been bothered by sexual harassment. When I was younger I knew how to deal with those who took liberties, and now … now I don't have to worry anymore, one of the perks getting older.