The College of Idaho is committed to a diverse and inclusive campus. True breadth and vibrant academic discourse require that we not only create a diverse community with a broad range of backgrounds among students, faculty, staff, and trustees, but also create a culture in which we can learn from each member’s unique experiences and differences. To that end, the College is committed to creating a campus community that is representative, inclusive, and equitable.
The College of Idaho does not tolerate bias, harassment or discrimination in its activities or employment opportunities on the basis of sex, race, color, age, religion, disability, national origin, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, status with regard to pregnancy or any other basis protected by law. We are firmly committed to adhering to the letter and spirit of all federal and state equal opportunity and civil rights laws.
Incidents of bias include, but are not limited to: actions, words, flirtations, advances, propositions, harassment, verbal abuse, jokes, slurs, epithets, symbols, graffiti, exclusionary practices, physical threats, negative stereotyping, verbal commentaries, or degrading words used to describe an individual based on an individuals' sex, race, color, age, religion, disability, national origin, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, status with regard to pregnancy or any other bias protected by law. This could occur physically, verbally, in writing, via social media or other electronic means. A bias incident can occur whether the act is intentional or unintentional, and may or may not be an unlawful act.
College of Idaho community members have responsibilities and options when they witness or experience incidents that interfere with these values. Incidents of bias should be reported as soon as possible to enable the behaviors to be addressed and those targeted to be supported.
College Response to Bias Incidents
The College of Idaho is committed to preventing and responding to biased behaviors and as such has created a Bias Assessment & Response Team (BART) and protocols for bias response.
The BART reviews, evaluates, and responds to reported incidents of bias experienced by members of the College of Idaho community and provides those who have witnessed, experienced, or been accused of an act of bias an opportunity to be heard, supported and advised. Data collected from the bias reports assists in monitoring campus climate trends and informs educational and outreach efforts for the College of Idaho community.
Based on the nature of the incident and in consultation with the individual(s) targeted for bias, BART may review incidents, mediate conflict, and/or facilitate educational or restorative conversations/practices. Incidents that may rise to the level of institutional policy violations or criminal acts and require investigation are referred to appropriate disciplinary processes or authorities.
Content area experts and college or community partners may be consulted to assist in review, communication, and facilitation of resolutions as Bias Team Liaisons.
Membership of the BART includes individuals from the Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance, the Office of Student Affairs and the RIE Alliance. BART and institution of its protocols are coordinated and related records are maintained by the Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance.
Impact of Bias Incidents
The effect of bias incidents can be more distinct and harmful compared to other crimes or improper acts because the attack is based on membership in an identity group as opposed to any individual trait or behavior. Members of minoritized identity groups often experience a cumulative impact of frequent acts of bias that can have negative impacts on their well-being and learning.
Support, inquiry, and/or advice are available in the following offices:
- Campus Safety – 208-459-5151
- Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Engagement – 208-459-5167
- Human Resources – 208-459-5680
- Confidential Resources
- Peer Health Advocates – 208-459-5555
- Campus Minister – 208-459-5282
- Health & Wellness Center – 208-459-5188