Our Commitment to You
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) remains committed to ensuring that no one is subject to sexual harassment of any kind in our education and training programs and activities. Everyone has the freedom to learn, work, and thrive in a safe and trusted environment.
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is unwelcome words or behaviors that are sexual or sex-based in nature from students or adults (of the same sex or not) that interfere with your ability to learn, study, work, or participate in school or work activities.
The harassment can be in the form of words said or written, something visual, or some form of unwanted physical touching that is sexual or targets you due to your sex. The conduct can make you feel embarrassed, sad, scared, pressured, upset, uncomfortable, humiliated, or angry, and interferes with your ability to focus on what you’re doing or to feel safe at school or work. It can happen on or off school grounds, in person or through other ways, such as by email or social media. It can range from mildly annoying comments or actions to unwanted touching and, in extreme cases, sexual activity forced upon a person without their voluntary or lawful consent, known as sexual assault, sexual violence, or rape.
Not being sufficiently protected from sexual harassment can be a form of sex discrimination prohibited by law under Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 and other antidiscrimination laws. DoDEA is dedicated to recognizing and responding to acts of sexual harassment, in accordance with its obligations to provide a discrimination-free learning and working environment under Executive Order 13160.
Sexual harassment can be intentional or unintentional, but no matter why it happens, sexual harassment will not be tolerated in DoDEA schools or workplaces.