Final answer:
Harassment under RCW 9A.46.020 encompasses unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other sexually explicit conduct that affects employment conditions or work environment. It also includes harassment based on race, religion, or other protected classes, and can be perpetrated by anyone related to the workplace, including clients. Schools and employers must take steps to prevent and address harassment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Harassment Under RCW 9A.46.020
Harassment as defined in RCW 9A.46.020 typically involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This behavior becomes sexual harassment when it negatively affects an individual's employment, such as their job performance, status, or when it contributes to an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. It is essential to recognize that harassment is not exclusively sexual; it can also be related to protected classes such as race, national origin, religion, or age.
Sexual harassment in the workplace negatively impacts both the employees and the organization. Employers are legally compelled to maintain a workplace free from harassment, as ruled by the Supreme Court. Workplace violence and activities like aggression or bullying, which could include electronic aggression through emails or texting, fall under this sphere of harassment as well. Schools and universities are also under legal obligations to address and prevent sexual harassment to avoid being held liable.
It's important to note that anyone can be a harasser - a supervisor, a co-worker, or even a non-employee like a client or customer. Recognizing and understanding the full scope of harassment is critical for maintaining a safe and respectful environment, whether in the workplace or educational institutions.