Hospitality Industry Has Highest Levels of Sexual Harassment

 Posted on October 24, 2024 in Sexual Harassment

Hospitality workers – those who work in the food and beverage service and motel/hotel industries – face more incidences of sexual harassment than any other profession. In addition to employing a vulnerable demographic (young and often female), there are unique workplace risks and low confidence in protections from employers. Sexual harassment is pervasive in this industry, impacting not only individual victims but also entire organizations.  

A Cornell University study found that those who work in industries with high levels of sexual harassment have a more difficult time identifying inappropriate workplace behavior. In other words, it occurs so often among certain industries and certain demographics that those who experience sexual harassment have, unfortunately, grown used to it. More sexual harassment claims are filed in the restaurant industry than any other, with as many as 90 percent of women and 70 percent of men reporting they have experienced some form of sexual harassment. That 90 percent compares to 30 percent of women in other industries.

Services workers often experience "routine" sexual harassment by co-workers, management, and customers. Since the industry also has an extremely high turnover rate, targets of sexual harassment are likely to leave before making a complaint. The United States culture of "the customer is always right" makes it even more difficult when the customer is the sexual harasser. Management is much more forgiving of sexual harassment from customers, and since low-wage restaurant workers rely on tips, they are less likely to report a customer who sexually harasses them. If you are the victim of sexual harassment in your workplace, an experienced Wheaton, IL sexual harassment lawyer can help.

Which Sexually Harassing Behaviors Are Most Common in the Hospitality Industry?

When asked about what sexually harassing behaviors were common, those in the hospitality industry said the most common behavior involves co-workers, managers, or customers telling sexually suggestive stories. Offensive remarks with a sexual connotation are the next most common behavior, followed by "making sexist comments" and "attempts to discuss sex."

One of the most repeated statements that women, in particular, report hearing from customers is, "Are you on the dessert menu? Because you look just as yummy." Despite feeling uncomfortable and even threatened by a remark like this, most servers see such comments as "part of the job," so they rarely complain to managers, and the behavior is normalized even more.

Why Are Hospitality Workers Less Likely to Report Workplace Sexual Harassment?

There are several reasons hospitality workers are less likely to report workplace sexual harassment, including:

• Most hospitality workers are paid low wages, yet they really need their jobs and paychecks.

• The high turnover rate in the hospitality industry leads managers to fire workers who report sexual harassment because there is usually another person ready to step in.

• Many servers who are barely getting 30 hours a week are afraid their hours will be cut even further if they complain of sexual harassment.

• Aside from having their hours cut, many hospitality workers fear retaliation for reporting sexual harassment and "negative consequences for refusing a sexual advance."

The restaurant industry must staunchly address sexual harassment in the workplace, including customer-based sexual harassment. Restaurant policy should ensure managers protect employees from unwanted sexual harassment from customers, and employees should undergo training that helps them understand their options when dealing with sexual harassment.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Sexual Harassment Lawyer

If you work in the service/hospitality industry and have experienced sexual harassment in your workplace, a Wheaton, IL sexual harassment lawyer from Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC can help you explore your options. Our highly skilled attorneys will listen carefully and address your concerns honestly as we explore the types of relief you could be entitled to. MKFM Law will comprehensively answer your questions regarding sexual harassment in the workplace. Call 630-665-7300 today to schedule an initial attorney meeting.