What must a supervisor do if they observe harassment?

When a supervisor observes harassment, their immediate responsibility is to report the observed behavior to the appropriate organizational resources, such as the Office of Equal Rights (OER) or the Agency for Disability Inclusion and Diversity (ADID). This course of action ensures that the issue is formally documented and addressed by individuals trained in handling such matters. Reporting the incident helps protect the rights of all parties involved and supports the organization's commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.

In many jurisdictions, including New York State, supervisors have a legal obligation to take action when they witness harassment, rather than simply confronting the harasser or ignoring the situation. Bypassing the formal reporting process can expose the organization to greater liability and prevent the victim from receiving the protection and support they need. Furthermore, waiting for the victim to report the incident places an unfair burden on them and may discourage them from coming forward if they fear retaliation or believe their concerns may not be taken seriously.