When you learn from a University community member(s) that they believe they have experienced some form of bias, please consider these Do's and Don'ts as you work to listen and support them:

DO

• When possible, meet with the person in private.
• Let the person(s) know that you believe her/him/they.
• Be aware that the person may be experiencing a wide range of emotions including shame, anger, fear, and denial.
• Advise the person(s) to contact UVM Police Services if they are concerned about personal safety, or if they wish to report the incident.
• Share that they can seek support through counseling services through UVM’s Counseling and Psychiatry Services if they are students, and if they identify as faculty or staff, advise them to call Invest EAP.
• Remind them that they can report the incident to the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Office for investigation.

DO NOT

• Try to explain or get caught up in the differences between “bias incident” and “hate crime.” The distinction is immaterial to the feelings the person(s) may be experiencing about the incident.
• Minimize the situation or the person’s identities.
• Express personal bias when looking to support the person(s).

Report a Bias Incident

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We encourage any person who has experienced or witnessed a bias incident to report it and seek the necessary resources. Thank you for taking the time to report this incident to ensure we are creating a more inclusive community for everyone.

 

Affiliated Offices

Office of Affirmative Action & Equal Opportunity

Vice Provost and Dean of Students Office