The Hidden War at Work: Women Fighting Harassment in Silence

The Hidden War at Work: Women Fighting Harassment in Silence
From whispers to warnings — how women can stand up to toxic workplaces with legal support

How women can protect themselves from workplace harassment using the law. Here’s what to do, and how we help.

Natalie Faure
Natalie Faure - Legal Advisor
2 August 2025 | 2 minute read
SPEAK OUT
HARASSMENT IS NOT OK
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Short on time? Watch the video short for a quick takeaway on the facts

💬 A Fight That Never Ended

On 9 August, South Africa honours Women’s Day — a tribute to the women who marched against oppression in 1956. Today, the battleground has shifted to boardrooms, staff rooms, and job sites across the country.

Too many women are still harassed, sidelined, or silenced at work. But here’s the truth: you are not powerless.

🛑 What Counts as Harassment?

Workplace harassment is not just sexual in nature. It can include:

  • Verbal abuse, shouting, mocking
  • Bullying, public criticism or threats
  • Being left out of meetings or training
  • Unfair treatment based on gender, race, age, or pregnancy
  • Deliberate career sabotage
  • Emotional manipulation or gaslighting

According to the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment, any unwanted conduct that undermines your dignity, creates a toxic environment, or affects your mental wellbeing is harassment.

🧾 What You Can Do

You have legal rights. Here’s how to take action:

  1. Record everything – Keep a detailed log of dates, times, what was said, and who witnessed it.
  2. Speak up – Report the behaviour to HR, your manager, or union rep.
  3. File a grievance – If nothing changes, go the formal route.
  4. Take legal action – You can escalate the case to the CCMA or Labour Court.

💡 Did you know? Employers are legally obligated to protect you from workplace harassment.

⚖️ The Law is on Your Side

Harassment is recognised under several key acts:

  • Employment Equity Act
  • Basic Conditions of Employment Act
  • Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act

If your employer ignores or mishandles your complaint, they can be held legally accountable.

💪 We Stand With You

At Legal & Tax, our mission is to empower women with the tools and legal backup to take a stand. We offer:

  • Emergency after-hours legal advice
  • Representation at disciplinary hearings
  • Unfair dismissal benefits
  • My AI Lawyer via WhatsApp
  • Trauma counselling

 

🎗️ This Women’s Month, Break the Silence

Harassment thrives in silence. Speaking up can feel scary, but you are never alone.

Let us walk beside you — with care, with courage, and with the power of the law.

With Legal&Tax, you're not alone

Stand up for dignity. Speak out against harassment. We’ll stand with you.

💬 WhatsApp: +27 (71) 526 8527 (type "AI" to start chatting) or visit www.askmyailawyer.com

☎️ Call: 0860 587 587

✉️Email: info@legalandtax.co.za

Get In Touch

Enter your details below and we’ll call you back!

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