Policy Statements

Relevant excerpt

What is Bias?

Bias is defined as behavior that constitutes an expression of hostility against a person or property of another because of the targeted person’s age, creed, disability, ethnic or national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, political or social affiliation, race, religion, or sexual orientation.

While it isn’t always easy to recognize, bias can be present in the classroom, workplace, and media, and often stems from fear, misunderstanding, hatred, and stereotypes. Even when offenders are not aware of bias or do not intend to offend, bias may be revealed that is worthy of a response and can serve as an opportunity for education.

Examples of Bias

• Telling jokes based on a stereotype
• Racist or derogatory graffiti or images/drawings
• Calling a person or a behavior “gay” as an insult
• Using a racial, ethnic, or other slur to identify someone
• Making a joke about someone being deaf, hard of hearing, blind, etc.
• Imitating someone with any kind of disability, or imitating someone’s cultural norm or practice
• Making comments on social media about someone’s disability, ethnicity, race, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, or political affiliations/beliefs

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Reporting an act of bias helps us understand the types of incidents occurring, biases that exist, and potential trends on our campus. By reporting, we can also respond accordingly to provide support, intervention, or education.

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