A "bias incident" consists of harassment of a member of the William and Mary community, including racial or sexual harassment. The College defines harassment as abusive conduct that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive to threaten an individual or limit the ability of the individual to work, study, or participate in College activities.

Of course, the mere expression of an idea, even if offensive to some, does not constitute a bias incident. The College's Statement of Rights and Responsibilities affirms that all members of the College community "shall enjoy all rights, privileges, and immunities guaranteed every citizen of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia." The Statement continues, "among the basic rights are freedom of expression and belief," an understanding fundamental to the open exchange of ideas and, in particular, the expression of controversial ideas and differing views that is a vital part of civil discourse.

If you are uncertain whether an occurrence meets the bias incident definition, please report the occurrence.

There are many types of conduct that may not constitute a bias incident but may violate College policies against discrimination. If you believe you have been subject to discrimination, you may find further information, including contact points for reporting your concerns, through the following resources:

• Refer to page 48 of the Student Handbook, if you are a student or if your complaint is about a student.
• Refer to Section III of the Faculty Handbook, if you are a faculty member or if your complaint is about a faculty member.
• The Office of Human Resources, if you are a non-faculty employee.

Information for all members of the College community about discrimination is also available at the Office of Equal Opportunity.

The System provides multiple modes of reporting to include personal contact, online form, or faxed form. How Are Bias Incidents Reported? Please, if this is an emergency, call 911.