Eastern Statement on Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

Policy Statement 

It is the policy of Eastern Connecticut State University that unlawful discrimination is prohibited. Consequently, it shall be a violation of University’s policy for any member of the University community to discriminate against any individual with respect to any terms, conditions, or privileges relating to employment or attendance at the University because of such individual's race; color; religion; sex; national origin; age; sexual orientation; or any other conditions established by law. 

Sexual harassment is a type of discriminatory behavior. It is the policy of Eastern Connecticut State University that no member of the academic community may sexually harass another. The following definition of sexual harassment, consistent with federal and state laws, is adopted to help individuals recognize such behavior. 

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: 1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or academic performance or advancement, 2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting such individual, or 3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or academic environment. 

Gender harassment is a form of sexual harassment that consists of discriminatory behavior towards an individual based on gender. It includes the use of sexist or discriminatory language, illustrations, examples, and gestures. 

Confidentiality 

Eastern Connecticut State University will assure confidentiality within the limits of the law.  Dissemination of information related to any specific complaint will be limited to the extent possible in order that the privacy of all individuals involved is safeguarded. 

Procedure 

Individuals suspecting harassment or discrimination, or considering the filing of a complaint, may do so by completing the Bias Incident Reporting FormBias Incident Reporting Form. The report is submitted directly to the Office of Equity and Diversity, who will respond via email or phone within 48 hours when the University is open to conduct additional inquiry and ensure the well-being of the affected individual(s) and campus community. 

Individuals will also be advised that they have the right to pursue a complaint through the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities or the federal Equal Employment Opportunities Commission. 

Except for students filing complaints against university professors from whom they are currently taking classes, complaints should be filed as soon as possible, and within 30 calendar days following the complainant's knowledge of the alleged discrimination or harassment. 

4 – Policy on Non-Discrimination