Idaho commission sees uptick in sexual harassment claims

BOISE – The Idaho Human Rights Commission says it has seen a noticeable uptick in sexual harassment complaints following the explosion of the #MeToo movement.

The commission says nearly a third out of all 88 complaints surrounding possible employee discrimination have included sexual harassment as an issue.

Benjamin Earwicker, director of the commission, says the amount is higher than in last few months of 2017 – adding that such an uptick in sexual harassment allegations is typically unusual for the commission.

The #MeToo movement began gaining momentum last fall with men and women sharing personal stories of sexual harassment or assault on social media.

The Idaho Human Rights Commission has 10 full-time employees tasked with investigating possible discriminatory cases revolving around employment, housing, education and public accommodations.