What must a plaintiff prove to prevail under the D.C. Human Rights Act?
An employee claiming sexual harassment under the DCHRA must establish a prima facie case demonstrating that unwelcome verbal and/or physical sexual advances were directed at him or her in the workplace, resulting in an abusive or hostile working environment. Retaliation for Reporting Sexual Harassment is Prohibited Section 704 (a) of Title VII and the DCHRA prohibit retaliation against employees who file sexual harassment complaints. Retaliatory actions include: termination, suspension, demotion, reduction in salary, and any act that might dissuade a reasonable person from reporting sexual harassment. What can a prevailing plaintiff recover? A prevailing plaintiff is entitled to reinstatement, back pay, front pay, compensatory damages and attorney fees. In addition, Title VII authorizes exemplary or punitive damages.
