CU Boulder policy prohibits discrimination and harassment based on protected class identity. The Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) educates the campus community about these concerns and addresses complaints of prohibited behaviors.
What are the protected classes?
Race, color, national origin, pregnancy, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and its expression, veteran status, and political affiliation/philosophy
Find information on protected class definitions at CU Boulder.
What is harassment?
Harassment is defined as verbal, written, or physical conduct related to one’s protected class identity that unreasonably interferes with an individual’s work or academic performance or creates an intimidating or hostile work or educational environment.
What is discrimination?
Discrimination occurs when an individual suffers an adverse consequence on the basis of a protected class identity. An adverse consequence is when someone is deprived of or denied a material benefit (money, a job, resources) based on their protected class identity.
When is someone required to report?
All employees who have the authority to hire, promote, discipline, evaluate, grade, formally advise, or direct faculty, staff or students are considered "responsible employees" and are required to report to OIEC.
What about general harassment that's not based on protected class identity?
Mistreatment or other harassing behaviors that are not based on a protected class identity cannot be investigated by OIEC, but that doesn't mean the behavior isn't a problem. There are a wide range of campus resources that can offer support and additional guidance on addressing concerns. Students and staff can also contact the Chair or Director of a department if the concern relates to a faculty member.