Do You Know Which Jokes Constitute Sexual (and Other) Harassment in Business and at Work?

It’s straightforward, actually. Avoid any jokes about any sexual topics at work – including but not limited to flirting, sarcasm about sex and joking about sexual behaviors, attributes, experiences, etc.  And remember: where 2 or more employees are gathered outside their physical workplace, it’s considered to be an extension of the workplace.

In the great state of New York, it’s also wise to avoid jokes about who people are in general; however in particular, ensure that you avoid any jokes about the following NYS protected classes:

• Race
• Color
• Age
• Sex / Gender
• Sexual Orientation (perceived or actual)
• Gender Identity / Expression
• Transgender Status
• Disability
• Religion / Creed
• Marital Status
• National Origin
• Ancestry
• Union Affiliation
• Citizenship
• Military / Veteran Status
• Political Affiliation
• Domestic Violence Victim Status
• Arrest or Conviction Record
• Genetic Predisposition/
  Carrier Status
• Lawful Outside Activities  – for example, drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco outside of work hours if over 21 years of age
• Natural Hair / Hairstyles.

The above is the opposite of funny – it has nothing to do with whether or not the recipient of the impact (not the intention – e.g., I didn’t mean to harass you by telling you that joke) of harassing jokes has a sense of humor – or not. None of us should have to endure sexual or other harassing jokes, in business and at work.