Bias Incident Response
Opening Statement
Bias can be defined as an inclination, temperament or prejudice for or against persons because of their memberships in a protected class, especially in a way considered to be unfair. An incident that is motivated by bias may include such things as offensive conduct or language, or expressions of disrespect toward a person or group because of actual or perceived membership in a protected class (i.e., race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national or ethnic origin, sex/gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, cognitive or physical disability, military status, veteran status). While bias can take many shapes, it typically results in a state of emotional discomfort and insecurity for the impacted individual.
TIPS FOR IDENTIFYING BIAS
- Slurs and epithets are used (terms to demean based on an identity).
- Hate symbols- or inflammatory symbols like nooses- are used.
- A pattern of incidents in which the targets and perpetrators are of a different race, religion, national origin, ability, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
- The acts are directed against members of groups(s) whose presence is in the minority in the community,
- The targets(s) believe the incident was motivated by bias or the person engaging in the conduct admits being motivated by prejudice or selecting targets based identity.
OPTIONS FOR RESPONDING TO BIAS
- Speak up against hateful acts.
- "That's no ok."
- "Those words hurt people, we respect others here and don't say those things." We commit ourselves to respect the dignity of every person in thought, word and action.
- Support impacted individual(s).
- "I'm sorry you were impacted, how can I help?"
- "How can I do better?" Listen and learn from others. Expose yourself to differences, engage in self awareness, and seek to understand.
- Practice behavior that is not intentionally insulting, demeaning, destructive or harmful to you or others. Recognize when unintentionally harmful words or action are brought to your attention.
FOCUS ON SAFETY AND SHARE THE INFORMATION
- Report to Equity Compliance go.udayton.edu/nondiscrimination or 937-299-3622. For University assistance or response; learn about rights and resources.
- Call Public Safety 937-229-2121 for immediate safety concerns and/or assistance with criminal reporting.
- In residence halls, contact your RA or another staff member.