Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Bias

Report a bias incident

Implicit Bias In Action - Used with permission by the Center for Urban Education

Bias Definition

A bias-related incident is any deliberate act or attempt to injure, harm or harass an individual or group because of the person or group’s gender, race, color, religion, age, disability, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or any other legally protected status or because the alleged perpetrator perceives that the other person or group has one or more of these characteristics. Such behavior includes acts or attempts that may pose physical or psychological harm or threat to individuals or groups.

The United States Congress has defined a hate crime as a “criminal offense against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender’s bias against a race, religion, disability, ethnic origin or sexual orientation.” Hate itself is not a crime — and the federal government is mindful of protecting freedom of speech and other civil liberties. Bias related incidents and hate crimes both involve behavior that is motivated by bias. However, it is important to note the distinction between the two. Hate crimes include a definable crime such as threats of violence, property damage, personal injury and other illegal conduct. A hate crime is an infraction of the law and may be addressed accordingly. A bias-related incident can be a violation of this policy but may not rise to the level of a hate crime, but all hate crimes are bias related-incidents. All incidents should be reported in order to determine the level and type of offense, to support the affected person(s) or group, to mitigate subsequent incidents by raising awareness of the offense, to develop an educational response, and to activate appropriate campus review and judicial processes when necessary to address individual or group behavior.

Bias Incident Guidelines

How Do I Report a Bias Incident?

If you have observed or experienced a bias incident, you are encouraged to contact a faculty or staff member with whom you are comfortable, call one of the following offices, or use the Report It button.

North Manchester Campus

University Safety

260-982-5999

Counseling Center

260-982-5306

Human Resources

260-470-2658

Multicultural Affairs

260-982-5423

Residential Life

260-982-5052

Student Life

260-982-5052

Student Success

260-982-5888

Fort Wayne Campus
Student Services	260-470-2655

Responses by the University

The Title IX Coordinator (TIXC) will review submitted reports, verify facts and communicate promptly with the reporter. The TIXC will offer services related to safety, counseling, or other supports as appropriate.

The TIXC will promptly document the report of the incident (i.e. who, what, when, where). Additionally, those directly concerned with the incident should take steps to retain any physical evidence.

The reporter will be asked what role they would like to play in responding to the incident.

The reporter will be assured that their physical and emotional needs are important and appropriate actions will be taken (i.e. possible relocation, academic accommodations, counseling, etc.) by appropriate Manchester staff. The TIXC will coordinate all interim measures.

hen appropriate, enhanced safety measures (patrols, surveillance etc.) may be promptly initiated and directed by University Safety.

An incident related to a victim’s gender, sex, gender identity or expression may undergo a Title IX intake with choice of grievance process participation.

Response to Accused

If accused is positively identified, the TIXC will staff communication with the Vice President for Student Life or Human Resources and may contact that person or persons.

The TIXC will complete an investigation to the allegations and provide an administrative review. An investigative report will be generated. If the act involves a crime, appropriate referral to the conduct system may be initiated.

The University Conduct System will be activated if the accused is suspected for violating the Student Code as defined by THE SOURCE. A judicial referral may be made by anyone in the University community.

If the accused is a faculty or staff member, the investigative report will be sent to the Human Resources. Human Resources staff shall provide a copy of the report to the accused and shall take the appropriate action.

Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT)

The Bias Incident Resource Team identifies the leaders through out the campus community. During the course of investigation and identified outcomes; the TIXC will consult with members across the university, such as:

Media Relations
Human Resources
Student Life
Athletics
Faculty Members
Presidents Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council
Admissions
Alumni
Other individuals/offices may be included as needed.

The TIXC will provide the DEI Core with data each term to identify themes, outcomes. The DEI Core team will work to implement strategies to educate and/or engage the campus community as appropriate.

Manchester University