Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, unwelcome requests for sexual favors, and other unwelcome verbal, nonverbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

There are two forms of sexual harassment:

Quid Pro Quo

Quid pro quo occurs when a person’s submission to such conduct is implicitly or explicitly made the basis for employment decisions, academic evaluation, or other decisions affecting participation in a University program.

Examples of quid pro quo:

• Giving employment promotions in exchange for sexual favors or romantic interest

• Providing grades or positive course evaluations in exchange for sexual favors or romantic interest

• Threatening to demote someone or give poor academic evaluations if one does not agree to providing sexual favors or romantic interest

Hostile Environment

Hostile environment involves unwelcome sexual or other sex-based conduct that is sufficiently severe or pervasive that it unreasonably denies, adversely limits, or interferes with a person’s learning or working environment.

Examples of hostile environment:

• Making sexual jokes or sexual innuendos, including email, texting, and social media

• Using someone’s incorrect pronouns or dead name

• Unwanted, repeated requests for dates

• Openly discussing one’s sex life 

• Making sexist comments 

• Unwanted hugs, shoulder rubs, or other touching

• Displaying posters, screensavers, or other visuals containing sexual content

#ThatsHarassment by Signal Avin

For more information, visit the #ThatsHarassment Facebook Page.

Please visit the UC Davis Sexual Violence Website to learn more about the UCD policy on sexual harassment