Why and How do I Report a Bias Incident?
Experiencing bias can be distressing, and we understand that students may benefit from receiving support to help them determine the best way to move forward. At Emory University, we are committed to offering assistance and guidance to those affected by bias, ensuring they have the resources and support they need.
Reporting incidents of bias plays a crucial role in supporting our mission to foster a safe and inclusive environment. By submitting a bias report, you contribute to creating a campus where students feel valued and supported. Your reports help us identify patterns, address concerns, and enhance our community’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with the university's vision of being “One Emory and Academic Community of Choice.”
If you believe you have encountered a bias incident, we strongly encourage you to submit a report. Initiate a Bias Incident Report by using the button below and selecting "Bias Report" from the drop-down menu. The form offers you the option to upload any supporting documentation, such as screenshots, documents, or pictures.
What Happens After I Submit a Report?
The Bias Support Team (BST) thoroughly reviews all reports and accompanying information as part of our commitment to support efforts with addressing bias-related concerns effectively. Within two (2) business days of receiving a report, the BSS support team will send a confirmation letter of receipt, extend an invitation to meet, and outline next steps to the person who submitted the report:
- A member of BST will coordinate initial meetings with the reporter to discuss any necessary referrals, accommodations, or support measures that may be required due to the specific incident. In instances where the reporter is not the impacted party, BST will make concerted efforts to extend the opportunity to meet with both reporter and impacted party as needed.
- BST will provide the reporter with information about the complaint mechanisms available at the University to address complaints of discrimination and harassment on the basis of protected class characteristics, including sexual misconduct. BST will discuss with the reporter about whether they would like to file a complaint based on their experience(s) and ensure they are connected to the appropriate office.
- BST will consider the reporter’s expressed interests and needs with respect to their report. However, BST has mandated reporter responsibilities and as such, BST members may be obligated to report matters to the appropriate office, depending on the severity or pervasiveness of the conduct reported. If this is necessary, the BST team member will advise the student that a referral is required.
Privacy and Anonymity
We understand the sensitivity of reported concerns and make concerted efforts to respect the privacy of the reporting party as much as possible. Reports of concerning behavior made to BSS are handled as discreetly as possible with relevant information made available only to those who need to know, access, and/or properly intervene. Disclosure of certain behavior(s) may be necessary to protect the health and safety of the university community or as required by law.
BSS will respond to anonymous reports but unfortunately cannot follow up with the reporter. BSS maintains the privacy of its records, but the only way for a reporter to guarantee their anonymity is to not include their identifying information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bias Support Team (BST) supports reporters through the bias reporting process (from initial report through review.) BST members have received specialized training to provide compassionate care for students through a trauma-informed approach, offering advocacy and support.
In the event that a report is referred to an appropriate office for review, the BST will continue to provide support for the reporter.
Any student may file a bias incident report against fellow student(s), or against faculty and staff.
Student complaints against faculty and staff will be reviewed and if appropriate, assigned to Human Resources.
Faculty or staff should utilize Human Resources/Employee Relations with bias concerns.
Reporting a bias incident helps to ensure our community addresses issues that impact our ability to cultivate the trust and cultural humility that are essential components of community building and learning at Emory. Once a report has been made, the Bias Support Team (BST) is able to share important information regarding complaint mechanisms for concerns of discrimination and harassment on the basis of protected characteristics, such as race, color, national origin, and sex.
Filing a bias incident report is not a complaint of discrimination, nor does it preclude a reporter from filing a complaint of discrimination with the relevant University office. Filing a bias incident report is also not required to file a complaint of discrimination and harassment.
- A member of the Bias Support Team (BST) will coordinate initial meetings with you to discuss any necessary referrals, accommodations, or support measures that may be required due to reported incident.
- BST will provide you with information about the complaint mechanisms available at the University to address complaints of discrimination and harassment on the basis of protected class characteristics, as well as sexual misconduct. BST will provide information and assist if you want to file a complaint based on your experience(s) and ensure you are connected to the appropriate office.
- BST will consider your expressed interests and needs with respect to the report. However, BST has mandated reporter responsibilities and as such, BST members may be obligated to report matters to the appropriate office, depending on the severity or pervasiveness of the conduct reported. If this is necessary, the BST team member will advise you that a referral is required.
The following departments and teams are available to offer resources and support to individuals who have encountered incidents of bias.
- Belonging and Community Justice
- Counseling and Psychological Services
- Department of Accessibility Services
- International Students and Scholar Services
- Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance
- Office of Respect
- Office of Title IX
- Ombuds Office
- Respect for Open Expression
- Spiritual and Religious Life
- Student Case Management and Intervention Services
- Student Health Services
- Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Initiative at Emory
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File a Report
If you have experienced or witnessed a bias incident you can receive support through BSS by filing a report via the link below.
Submit