We must all work together to prevent sexual harassment, and to deter those who may engage in this or any other form of discriminatory behavior. Please take the time to read this brochure and better understand what you can do to help eliminate sexual harassment at UH Hilo. Sexual harassment in an academic environment or in a workplace can threaten a person's academic performance or economic livelihood. Examples of Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment can take many forms. It can involve insensitive or thoughtless actions that are offensive to others, or it can involve an intentional abuse of power or authority.
Sexual harassment can involve persons of the same or opposite sex.
Both men and women can be victims of sexual harassment. Nonverbal Leering, whistling, suggestive or insulting sounds and gestures, posting sexually denigrating pictures on office walls. Consenting Relations Consenting romantic and sexual relationships between a faculty member and student or between a supervisor and subordinate can lead to charges of sexual harassment. Thus, while such relationships are not expressly forbidden, they are discouraged. All members of the University community must be aware that even in relationships where no negative consequences arise for the individuals involved, they can create a conflict of interest and the risk of academic or supervisory leverage to maintain or promote the relationship.