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EEOC Resource Center

Hostile work environment: severe and pervasive conduct

Hostile work environment harassment · Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 · fictionalized composite for education only.

Every example below is a fictionalized composite created for educational purposes. The employees, employers, and facts are invented and do not represent any real person, company, or case. These examples are general public information, not legal advice.

Fictional employee
U.J., machine operator
Fictional employer
Harborview Transit Inc.
Location
a metro area in the South
Illustrated statute
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Illustrative charge narrative

I was employed by Harborview Transit Inc. as a machine operator in a metro area in the South. I was subjected to repeated offensive comments and conduct based on my protected class that were severe and pervasive enough to alter the conditions of my employment. I reported the conduct, and the employer failed to take prompt and effective action. I believe I was subjected to a hostile work environment, in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Teaching point

Strong because it pleads the hostile environment standard (severe or pervasive conduct tied to a protected class) and the employer's notice and failure to act, which establishes employer liability.

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