Sexual Harassment: What Every Manager Must Know; Sexual Harassment: What Every Woman Must Know

Ann T. Navar is the interviewer for these coffee table talks with E. William Maloney and Susan J. Craven, from the law firm Maloney & Craven, P.C., on the subject of "sexual harassment." Both programs use the same format, and much of the same material. The majority of the talking is done by Maloney, a man who is an absolute pro at speaking monotone legalese. What Every Woman Should Know is probably more applicable (and definitely less expensive) for public libraries, so we'll talk about it first. After viewers get confused over the frequent use of the term "discrimination" (as opposed to "harassment" which is not used), they learn that the legal basis for sexual harassment issues is found in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. A long and long-winded explanation of the "quid pro quo" (or bargaining for sex) and "hostile environment" (objectionable behavior that doesn't include specific sexual acts) areas of sexual harassment is followed by suggestions for action. Viewers are advised to document everything relating to a potential claim, given instructions on how to make a claim, and alerted to the possible entitlements accruing from a successful claim (back pay, job reinstatement, correction of the work environment, payment of attorney's fees, etc.). However, this information is not necessarily presented in a coherent and logical manner, and viewers would have to take copious notes and review pertinent sections of the video before taking any steps. An addendum features the voice of Maloney explaining what impact the Civil Rights Act of 1991 has on the subject (unfortunately, it's not a prepared speech, "uh"s, "ah"s, and general rambling make the addendum twice as long as need be.) The other tape What Every Manager Should Know includes much of the same information, with managers being advised to document worker's performances to guard against claims. There's also an interview with William G. Craven, who basically hawks polygraph tests (phone number on screen included), and Donald Potter, an executive who talks about the changing work environment (more women in the workplace, etc.). Neither program is easy on the eye or ear, which is a shame, since an informative program is surely needed in this area. Not recommended. (Available from: Black Ravan Corporation, 3176 MacArthur Blvd., Northbrook, IL 60062.)