Policy on Discrimination, Protected Class Harassment, and Retaliation: Protected Class Harassment

Relevant Excerpt

Protected Class Harassment is a form of discrimination and is conduct based upon an individual’s race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy that is unwelcome and sufficiently severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or offensive, or that substantially interferes with an individual's work or education. Intent is irrelevant in the determination of prohibited harassment. Depending upon the facts, harassment could include, but is not limited to threats, physical contact or violence, pranks, jokes, bullying, epithets, derogatory comments, or vandalism.

Even if actions are not directed at specific persons, a hostile environment may be created when the conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive so as to substantially interfere with or limit the ability of an individual in the environment to work, study, or otherwise participate in activities of the University.

Conduct alleged to be harassment, including sexual harassment (defined below), will be evaluated by considering the totality of the particular circumstances, including the nature, frequency, intensity, location, context, and duration of the conduct. Although repeated incidents generally create a stronger claim of harassment, a serious incident, even if isolated, can be sufficient.