Bias Incident Response Team

Rivier University prioritizes diversity and inclusion as essential to fostering respect among all community members. Acts of bias, hate, or discrimination are taken seriously.

Members of the Bias Incident Response Team (BiRT) respond to incidents of bias by supporting students, connecting them with resources, educating the campus community, and interfacing with the Diversity Council for information sharing and policy review. The University has established this team to effectively address and manage incidents of bias within the community.  The primary goals are to promote inclusivity, support affected individuals, maintain a positive campus climate, and demonstrate the university’s commitment to addressing bias-motivated incidents that violate our community standards.

Actions motivated by bias reflect a deliberate intent against an individual’s race, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran or marital status, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or other group characteristics. Bias acts can manifest as expressions of hate and may range from offensive comments to harmful actions. While not all biased incidents qualify as discrimination or hate crimes, they nonetheless raise significant concerns. These acts contribute to an unsafe or unwelcoming atmosphere.

BIRT ensures that students affected by bias incidents have access to resources and supports to help them navigate bias-motivated offenses.

Bias Acts

  • Definition: Actions motivated by prejudice against a person’s identity (e.g., race, gender, religion).
  • Nature: Can include offensive comments, slurs, or exclusionary behavior.
  • Status: Not necessarily criminal; may not meet legal thresholds for prosecution. A violation of the conduct code.

Hate Crimes

  • Definition: Criminal acts motivated by bias against a protected characteristic.
  • Nature: Involves illegal activities such as assault, vandalism, or threats.
  • Status: Specifically defined by law; can lead to enhanced penalties or charges. A violation of the conduct code.

Discrimination

  • Definition: Unfair treatment of individuals or groups based on specific characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
  • Nature: Manifests in various forms, including exclusion from opportunities, harassment, unequal access to services, and biased policies.
  • Status: Addressed by laws and regulations that protect individuals from unfair treatment. A violation of the conduct code.

Bias acts, hate crimes, and discrimination represent different expressions of prejudice and unfair treatment. Bias acts encompass actions motivated by prejudice, such as offensive comments or exclusionary behavior, and may not always be criminal. Hate crimes are specific criminal acts driven by bias against protected characteristics, leading to enhanced legal penalties. Discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of individuals or groups based on traits like race, gender, or religion, and is often addressed through laws that protect against such inequities. Together, these concepts highlight the various ways bias can manifest.

Bias Incident Report Form

What Happens When A Report Is Filed?

When a report is filed with BIRT, the following steps are taken:

  1. Initial Assessment: The report is reviewed and assessed to determine its nature and severity.
  2. Investigation: If necessary, an investigation may be initiated to gather more information about the incident.
  3. Support for Affected Parties: The BIRT provides support and resources to those affected by the bias incident.
  4. Response and Action: Based on the findings of the assessment or investigation, the BIRT may recommend or implement appropriate actions or interventions or refer the matter to Student Conduct.
  5. Documentation: The incident and the response actions are documented for future reference and accountability.
  6. Follow-up: The BIRT may follow up with affected parties to ensure their ongoing support and address any further concerns.
  7. Education and Prevention: BIRT may also engage in educational efforts to prevent future incidents and promote a respectful and inclusive environment.

We understand that personal information is sensitive and must be handled with care. While we are committed to protecting privacy, there are situations where complete confidentiality may not always be possible.

BIRT Members

Contact

Dr. Paula Randazza

Assistant Vice President for Student Experience, Dean of Students