Hostile workplaces are tragically common across Canada. Calgary residents may have had experience with workplace harassment in their own jobs, or likely know someone who has. Often, these incidents go unreported, usually because people fear reprisal for coming forward. Now, an American company is offering an alternative: an app that allows victims to anonymously report harassment in the workplace. 

The genesis of the idea came from the high-profile media attention focused on the Upright Citizen's Brigade comedy theater and school, which became a hotbed of controversy after a host was fired for allegedly raping several women. After the debacle, UCB instituted a hotline for people to call if they are being harassed, but it has not received much in the way of use. Many people fear being identified as a "trouble maker" and not having their concerns addressed. 

In an effort to make victims more comfortable with coming forward, UCB introduced Callisto, an app designed for people to anonymously report misconduct in the workplace without exposing themselves to potential retribution. Many victims do not report incidents of harassment for fear of being the first person to do so -- there is a great deal of uncertainty wrapped up in the victimization process. It is hoped that use of an app will be less intimidating and more likely to help victims come forward. 

Workplace harassment is not a problem that will be solved overnight, both here in Calgary and elsewhere in the nation. While emergent technologies might help to address these issues more directly, there is also a wealth of legal support available to victims of harassment. Seeking the support of an experienced employment attorney can be a positive first step toward solving a harassment claim in any Canadian workplace. 

Source:  Financial Post, "Can an app get victims to anonymously report workplace harassment?", Rebecca Greenfield, June 15, 2017

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.