Question

Human Resources received multiple complaints from various Associates that Gary was harassing a co-worker by telling off-color jokes about the Associate's culture in the breakroom.
Gary assures the HR Representative that he certainly did not intend to offend anyone, so there is no reason for concern. Because Gary didn't mean to offend anyone, this is not harassment.
True
False

Answer 1

False.

Intent is not a defense — harassment is judged by its effect and whether the conduct is unwelcome or creates a hostile/workplace offensive to a reasonable person. HR must investigate the complaints, document findings, and take appropriate corrective action (coaching or discipline, re-training, etc.).