Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is committed to providing a work environment free from sexual harassment. As the Archivist of the United States, I place a high premium on ensuring that we -- National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) employees as well as our guests -- do our part in creating a comfortable environment for everyone who uses our facilities. To emphasize this commitment, I want to ensure that we all clearly understand what constitutes sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (1) submission to or rejection of such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a person's job, pay or career, or (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by a person is used as a basis for career or employment decisions affecting that person, or (3) such conduct interferes with an individual's performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.
Sexual harassment is a prohibited personnel practice. I will not tolerate behaviors that create an offensive atmosphere and work environment that undermines our mission accomplishment. Allegations of sexual harassment will be dealt with swiftly and fairly. Where it is found to occur, corrective action, including appropriate disciplinary measures, will be taken. Multiple avenues for resolution and redress are available. Employees may use the Equal Employment Opportunity Discrimination Complaint Process, the Administrative Grievance Procedures or the appropriate Negotiated Grievance Procedures.
Prevention of sexual harassment is the responsibility of all employees. However, managers and supervisors must set the example in treating all people with mutual respect and dignity, fostering a positive climate, and taking appropriate action when conduct is disruptive, provoking, discriminatory or otherwise unprofessional.
I pledge to enforce the highest standards of personal conduct in the workplace and I ask each one of you to join me in this commitment. We must exhibit the highest professional behavior and courtesy as we work together to accomplish our mission.
JOHN W. CARLIN
Archivist of the United States
July 22, 1998
