1. Purpose
The purpose of this practice directive is to reference the Board of Regents policy on discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
2. Background
On October 7, 1988, the Board of Regents adopted a policy on discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. That policy, now Regent Policy Document 14-6, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation (RPD 14-6) expresses the Board of Regents’ commitment to providing an educational, program, activity, and workplace environment free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
3. Definitions
Please see SYS 1225, General Terms and Definitions, for a list of general terms and definitions.
4. Practice Directive
In RPD 14-6 the Board expresses its commitment to providing UW System employees with a workplace free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The policy provides:
It is the policy of the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System to maintain an academic and work environment free of discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or retaliation for all students and employees. Discrimination is inconsistent with the efforts of the University of Wisconsin System to foster an environment of respect for the dignity and worth of all members of the university community and to eliminate all manifestations of discrimination within the university. The Board is also committed to the protection of individual rights under the First Amendment (and related principles of academic freedom) and in preserving the widest possible dialogue within its educational environment.
Discrimination or discriminatory harassment that is based upon an individual’s characteristics which are protected under institution policy, state law or federal law (“protected status”) is prohibited. Harassment is a form of discrimination and is prohibited. In addition, any form of retaliation against students or employees will not be tolerated. Any person who believes they have been subject to this type of prohibited activity should immediately report it to the appropriate institution official or office.
5. Related Documents
Regent Policy Document 14-6, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation
Regent Policy Document 14-2 Sexual Harassment Policy Statement and Implementation
Regent Policy Document 14-10 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability