Bias Incident Response Policy

Bias Incident Response Policy

Sponsor:

Chief Diversity Officer

Contact:

Chief Diversity Officer

Category:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Number:

550.001

Effective Date:

07/31/2024

Implementation History:

Approved on 2024/07/31

Keywords:

Bias Incident

Background Information:

This policy delineates non-emergency Bias Incidents from Bias Crimes, also called hate crimes, which are addressed in the University’s Bias-Related Crime Policy. Bias Incidents may or may not rise to the level of a crime and will be handled on a case-by-case basis to determine an appropriate course of action.

In circumstances involving safety or criminal activity, the University may not be able to guarantee the Complainant’s anonymity. However, all incidents will be handled with care and discretion in accordance with the University’s privacy and other applicable policies.

Purpose

Empire State University is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming community for all students and employees at each University location and in University-hosted online environments. The institution takes seriously all Bias Incidents and provides the following information to help prevent and respond to such incidents.

Definitions

Bias Incidents are words or actions directed at a member of a group within Empire State University that may or may not rise to the level of a crime; this includes bigotry, harassment, or intimidation based on national origin, ethnicity, race, age, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, color, creed, or marital status.

Complainant is the individual submitting a Bias Incident report.

University is Empire State University, also known as SUNY Empire.

Statements

Empire State University does not tolerate Bias Incidents. If a student or employee is the victim of, or witness to, a Bias Incident at a University location or University-sponsored event, whether in person or online, the student or employee should report it using the procedures herein.

Those reporting Bias Incidents should submit the University’s Bias Incident Reporting Form.

Upon receipt of a Bias Incident report, the chief diversity officer will:

  • Promptly review the report and assign a designated reviewer to contact the Complainant and/or person impacted, if requested, for follow-up measures. This may include:
    • Determining how to assist the Complainant, including identifying all available support resources, such counseling services.
    • Contacting other involved parties and/or University departments to reach a resolution.
  • Develop educational opportunities in response to Bias Incidents to foster inclusivity and awareness of University support systems.

Applicable Legislation and Regulations

Related References, Policies, Procedures, Forms, and Appendices

Bias Incidents with qualifying circumstances, as determined by the chief diversity officer or designee, may concurrently be addressed through the University’s Discrimination Complaint Procedures or Student Conduct Policy and Procedures.

Non-Discrimination/Anti-Harassment Policy

Bias Crime Policy

Sexual Harassment Policy

Criminal Incident Reporting Policy and Procedures

Discrimination Complaint Procedures - Student Affairs

Non-Discrimination/Anti-Harassment Policy - Student Affairs

Sexual Harassment Policy - Student Affairs

Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Policy - Student Affairs

Related References, Policies, Procedures, Forms and Appendices