477 U.S. 57 (1986)

Summary

Argued March 25, 1986. Decided June 19, 1986.

Justice Angela ONWUACHI-WILLIG delivered the opinion of the Court.¹

This case presents important questions concerning claims of workplace “sexual harassment” brought under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 253, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e et seq. These questions include (1) whether the factual record was sufficiently developed to render decisions on either a quid pro quo claim or a hostile environment claim; (2) whether sexual harassment leading only to psychological harm violates Title VII; (3) whether the “voluntariness” of the complainant’s participation in sexual activity is pertinent in a hostile environment case, (4) whether the complainant’s manner of dress or sexually provocative speech is relevant to determining whether sexual harassment occurred; (5) whether the trial court erred in excluding testimonial evidence from other women who claimed to have been harassed by the alleged wrongdoer and to have seen him harass the complainant; and (6) whether employers are automatically liable for sexual harassment by their supervisory personnel regardless of notice to the employer.