This archive report was first published on 25 September 2019.
Sexual harassment is a complex issue that affects both men and women. While it's often associated with men harassing women, the reality is that women can also be perpetrators of sexual harassment against men.
Comedian MC Jesse, a popular figure in the entertainment industry, has spoken out about the issue. He says that he's experienced unwanted advances from female fans, including hugs and photo ops that have crossed the line into sexual harassment.
According to the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), sexual harassment includes any direct or indirect request for sexual activity that contains an implied promise of preferential treatment or threat of detrimental treatment in employment. It also includes language, visual material, and physical behavior of a sexual nature.
So, how do women commit sexual harassment against men? Here are six ways:
1. Unwanted Physical Touch ¶
Women may use physical touch to express their feelings or to get a reaction from a man. This can include hugging, kissing, or touching in a sexual manner. However, if the man has shown reservations or has not consented to such behavior, it can be considered sexual harassment.
2. Displaying Sexual Imagery ¶
Women may display sexual imagery in the workplace, such as pinning up pictures or sending explicit messages. This can create a hostile work environment and make the man feel uncomfortable or harassed.
3. Sexually Explicit Communication ¶
Women may engage in sexually explicit communication with men, such as sending explicit messages or making suggestive comments. If the man has not asked for such communication, it can be considered sexual harassment.
4. Offering Sex in Exchange for Job-Related Benefits ¶
Women may offer sex in exchange for job-related benefits, such as promotion or favorable treatment. This can create a power imbalance and make the man feel pressured or coerced into engaging in sexual activity.
5. Demands for Sexual Favors in Exchange for Advantages ¶
Women may demand sexual favors from men in exchange for advantages, such as promotion or favorable treatment. This can create a power imbalance and make the man feel pressured or coerced into engaging in sexual activity.
6. Intrusive Comments or Jokes about a Person's Body or Sexuality ¶
Women may make intrusive comments or jokes about a man's body or sexuality, which can create a hostile work environment and make the man feel uncomfortable or harassed.
According to Jane Godia, a trainer on sexual harassment in the workplace, the common denominator in all these cases is power dynamics. Women may use their emotional or psychological power to manipulate men into engaging in sexual activity or to create a hostile work environment.
It's essential to recognize that sexual harassment is not just about men harassing women. It's a complex issue that affects both men and women, and it's essential to address it in a nuanced and sensitive manner.
