Prior to being employed at an upscale restaurant chain, I knew that sex-based discrimination and harassment existed in the workplace. However as ignorant as this may seem, I never quite comprehended how frequent sexual harassment occurs, until it happened to me.

On average, 54% of women feel that they have been sexually harassed by a coworker or superior in the workplace. As more and more women enter the labor force, this statistic increases tremendously, which frankly, is unacceptable.

The root of this issue lives in Washington D.C. Although women represent over 50% of the population, women make up only 19% of representatives in Congress. How are women’s needs and wants supposed to be represented if men dominate each branch of the government?

The following comments were said to me in less than a month after staring a hostess position.

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1. "We only hire pretty girls. Why do you think you're here?"

So, the fact that I have a high GPA and prior work experience did not factor into that decision?

2. "If you need a date to a formal let me know. I have lots of experience with girls and alcohol."

Here is some background information: this was said by a 30-something year-old man.

3. "How are you at making out? Because I know a lot and can teach you some things."

Said by a man twice my age. But yeah, you're right how women are treated in the workforce is not a problem.

4. "Is it that time of the month?"

This is never okay.

5. "Did you see what was wrong with that girl that just applied to be another hostess?"

After my manager asked me this question about a hostess applicant, I responded "I don't know. I did not talk to her." He said "Did you see her face?"

6. "Hey, sweetheart."

Hey, boss. You wouldn't call my male coworker that would you? I am not your sweetheart, sweetie, baby or dear.

7. "So, do you have a boyfriend?"

I'm sorry, but that has nothing to do with my job.

Never experienced these? Imagine that your sister, friend, girlfriend, wife or mother was at the other end of these comments.