Towson University Policies: 06-01.20- Policy and Procedures for the Reporting of Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents
Towson University
Relevant Excerpt
Our educational mission requires that the University foster a campus environment that is free from hate crimes and acts of bias, hate, or prejudice. In setting forth this policy, we appreciate the potential tensions between this policy and concerns about academic freedom and freedom of speech. This policy outlines and affirms the University's commitment to providing a welcoming educational environment that fosters critical evaluations of the intersections of individual and community identities and values, while at the same time safeguarding individual freedom in the exchange of ideas and viewpoints. ...
These Procedures identify the University's administrative response when students, staff, or faculty are alleged to have committed a hate crime or bias incident. The University takes steps to prevent the occurrence of hate crimes and bias incidents, investigate allegations of Policy violations, and remedy discriminatory effects that may occur. ...
“Hate Speech” is speech that is intended to insult or offend another person because of their actual or perceived identity or group membership(s). ...
“Bias Incidents” are incidents involving verbal, written, or physical behaviors which are not criminal offenses, but target a person because of their actual or perceived identity or group membership(s). ...
The University is committed to keeping accurate records of all alleged Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents. As such, the University encourages reporting of all potential Hate Crimes or Bias Incidents, even if the perpetrator is unknown and unlikely to be known. Depending on the circumstances, the University may need to move forward with further investigation regardless of the target's wishes. ...
If the incident occurred within University Housing, the Department of Housing & Residence Life (“HRL”) will respond to the immediate needs of the involved parties/community. This includes providing interim measures for living arrangements and offering educational or restorative interventions as outlined in the HRL protocol for responding to Hate Crimes or Bias Incidents. ...
If the incident occurred outside of University Housing, OIIE will respond to the immediate needs of the involved parties/community. This includes providing interim measures and offering educational or restorative interventions where appropriate. ...