Army Harassment Policy

The U.S. Army has a Zero Tolerance Policy for sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is not tolerated in the workplace and that includes the U.S. Army. The latest U.S. Army Sexual Harassment policy is dated August 10, 1995, and states that, "sexual harassment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated." It's important to understand how you are protected under the provisions of this policy.

Army Policy

The U.S. Army defines sexual harssment as: "unwelcome sexual advances, requests for
sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which is made a term or
condition of a person's job, is used as a basis for career or employment decisions affecting a person,
interferes with the performance of a soldier or civilian of America's Army, or creates an intimidating,
hostile or offensive working environment."

Military Leadership

U.S. Army policy clearly states that creating an environment free of sexual harassment is the job of every leader in the Army. In order to maintain an effective trained force, ready to fight and win, the Army says, "We expect everyone to do what is right legally and morally--everyday."

Zero Tolerance

Key to mission accomplishment, according to Army policy, is maintaining an environment that promotes the dignity, self-respect, and fair treatment of every individual. This means that the U.S. Army has a Zero Tolerance policy for sexual harassment.

Signs of Harassment

Signs of harassment include: asking for sexual favors, verbal remarks of a sexual nature, inappropriate physical conduct of a sexual nature, or linking sexual favors to promotions or other career decisions. All of these factors combine to create an intimidating, offensive or threatening work situation for the harassed.

Reporting Harassment

The individual being harassed should let the harasser clearly know the behavior is inappropriate and immediately report it to the proper individual or office. Army policy states, "It is the responsibility of every leader--military and civilian--to examine allegations of sexual harassment and take necessary action to ensure that these matters are addressed swiftly, fairly, and effectively."

References

• Department of the Army: Army Policy on Sexual Harassment