University of Maine System Policy Manual: Sex Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Relationship Violence, Stalking and Retaliation and Title IX Sexual Harassment

Relevant Excerpt

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, including sexual assault and sexual violence. Sexual harassment, including sexual assault, can involve persons of the same or opposite sex. Consistent with the law, this policy prohibits two types of sexual harassment: …

2. Hostile Environment: Sexual harassment that creates a hostile environment is based on sex and exists when the harassment:

i. Is subjectively and objectively offensive; and
ii. Is so severe or pervasive as to alter the conditions of a person’s employment, education or living situation that it creates an abusive working, educational or living environment.