Illegal Harassment Policy
In accordance with its policy of Nondiscrimination, Rhode Island College prohibits sexual harassment and harassment on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or citizenship status.
Sexual harassment is a form of gender discrimination and is a violation of State and Federal law.
Sexual harassment is defined to include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Such conduct is prohibited when the behavior is directed to an individual because of his or her gender and (1) when submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of instruction, employment or otherwise full participation in College life; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is considered in evaluating a person's academic work or job performance; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with a person's academic or job performance or creating a sexually intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment.
Complaints about illegal harassment will be responded to promptly. Retaliation against an individual bringing a complaint of illegal harassment constitutes a violation of College policy as well as state and federal law. An individual found guilty of illegal harassment or retaliation, or any individual who initiates a fraudulent claim of harassment, shall be subject to disciplinary action. All persons who believe that they are or may have been victims of illegal harassment are encouraged to seek resolution promptly through the established informal and formal procedures of the College as set forth in the Complaint Resolution Policy
Individuals seeking information regarding illegal harassment may consult with any of the following offices or individuals for advice and assistance.(A list can be obtained by clicking here.) Those who have been witness to illegal harassment should report their observations as well.
All employees of Rhode Island College are expected to make every effort to ensure that students and fellow employees are not subjected to any form of sexual or other illegal harassment. This effort may be formal or informal, depending on the circumstances.
Students who engage in illegal harassment off College premises at College related activities will be subject to discipline in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct (see Student Handbook).
Confidentiality will be respected during all complaint procedures to the degree the procedure will allow. However, if an employee or student wishes to bring a complaint and remain anonymous, the ability of the College to respond may be limited.
The Affirmative Action Office has institutional responsibility for monitoring the College's compliance with applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in the form of illegal harassment.
College officials receiving complaints of illegal harassment should report the same to the Affirmative Action Office so that effective monitoring of illegal harassment incidents can take place.
Students and employees shall retain their right to seek resolution for alleged illegal harassment by filing a complaint with responsible state and federal civil rights agencies:
R.I. Commission for Human Rights
180 Westminster Street, 3rd Floor
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: 401-222-2661
http://www.richr.ri.gov/frames.html Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
John F. Kennedy Federal Building
475 Government Center
Boston, MA 02203
(617)565-3200
http://www.eeoc.gov/boston/charge.html
