Code of Student Conduct: Harassment

Georgia Southern University

  • Speech Code Rating
    Yellow
  • Speech Code Category
    Harassment Policies
  • Last updated
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Relevant Excerpt

a. Speech or other expression (words, pictures, symbols) that constitutes fighting words and is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to interfere, limit, or deny one’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program. Fighting words may include, but are not limited to, words, pictures or symbols that:
i. are directed to an individual or individuals based on that person’s race, color,
sex, religion, creed, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity,
disability, veteran status or national origin, and;
ii. threaten violence, tend to incite an immediate breach of the peace or
provoke a violent response.
iii. In the context of this policy, fighting words are those which are commonly
understood to convey direct and visceral hatred or contempt for human
beings. When determining whether speech is such as would provoke a violent
response or incite an immediate breach of the peace, it is not necessary to
show that the person(s) addressed by the speech was or were actually incited
to violence or hostile action. Conduct will be evaluated on a case-by-case
basis, considering all circumstances involved.


b. Following, placing under surveillance, or contacting (in person, by phone,
electronically, or by any other means) another person without one’s permission for the
purpose of harassing or intimidating that person. Harassing or intimidating means a
knowing and willful course of Conduct that serves no legitimate purpose and causes
emotional distress by placing another person in reasonable fear for the safety of
themselves or others.


c. Any unlawful act of intimidation or bullying directed against any person or group
of persons.

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