Seeing a coworker experience harassment or discrimination can leave you unsure about what to do, especially when you worry about making the situation worse or drawing attention to yourself. You do not have to ignore what you witnessed. Taking a few practical steps can support your coworker and help your employer address the conduct.
Here are the steps you can take.
Support your coworker
Let your coworker know that you saw what happened and that you are willing to support them without pressuring them to respond in a particular way. You might ask whether they want you to accompany them when they report the incident or simply listen to what they want to do next.
Avoid discussing the incident with other coworkers who do not need to know, since spreading details around the workplace could add stress for someone who already feels uncomfortable.
Document what you witnessed
Write down what happened as soon as possible to preserve details that could help your coworker later. Include the date, location, people involved and specific words or actions you observed. Stick to what you personally saw or heard rather than guessing about someone’s intentions.
You should also preserve relevant emails, messages or other records if you have access to them. These may help your coworker provide specific information if they decide to report the harassment or pursue a legal claim.
Report the harassment
You can report what you personally witnessed even if your coworker has not reported it themselves. Check your employer’s policies for available reporting channels, such as:
- Human resources
- A supervisor or manager
- An ethics or compliance hotline
- Another reporting channel listed in your employee handbook
You do not need to investigate the situation yourself or confront the person responsible. If the situation feels threatening or could escalate, choose a reporting method that does not put you or your coworker at greater risk.
Watch for retaliation
California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protects you from retaliation when you speak out against workplace harassment or participate in an investigation. Your employer generally cannot punish you for taking those actions.
Retaliation can include:
- Firing
- Discipline
- Being passed over for a promotion
- Losing work opportunities
- Other harmful changes after you reported the harassment
Keep records of significant changes and related communications if your treatment at work changes negatively. If you notice them after reporting what you witnessed, those records can help show what happened and when.
Take action when harassment happens
You do not have to determine on your own whether what you witnessed could support a legal claim. If your employer fails to address the harassment or you face negative treatment after speaking up, an attorney can review what happened and your records. Legal guidance can help you understand whether the circumstances raise concerns under California law and what options may be available to you or your coworker.