Harassment in Maryland?

[wolfie53]

First of all, thanks for reading this. I work for a non-profit group and have been there for almost 4 years. When you leave your shift you report to the next shift person. When I was talking to her about what happened on my shift she blew me off and started to talk about weight. I tried to redirect her but, she still kept talking about weight. The next thing I knew she stared talking about my thighs and how fat they were. Then she walked past me and slapped my thighs. I was so shocked I walked out and left work. I reported this to my RM and she said nothing can be done. The HR at work cannot help. What can I do?

[cbg]

Well, I suppose you could file an assault charge with the police (for the slap) but other than that you're SOL. Weight is not a protected characteristic in Maryland so this does not constitute illegal harassment. Your co-worker was incredibly rude, but she did not violate any employment laws.

[wolfie53]

Thanks for the quick reply cbg. It is good to know I have options if I want to take them. Thanks again.