Office of Student ConductAcademic Integrity and Classroom CivilityResources
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Creating a Healthy Campus ClimateThe University of Minnesota's Mission Statement commits us to establish and nurture an environment that actively acknowledges and values diversity and is free from racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice, intolerance, or harassment. Quoting Bill Lockyer (California Attorney General) "Hate crimes are among the most dehumanizing of crimes because the perpetrator views his or her victim as lacking full human worth due to his or her skin color, language, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. In addition, a hate crime impacts the entire group to which the victim belongs, spreading concern throughout the community." This is particularly distressing in an academic environment where a sense of safety and well-being are essential in building the trust that allows a diverse community to work together and learn from one another. Definition of Hate IncidentA hate incident is some type of behavior or action motivated by hate but one that is protected by First Amendment rights (e.g., offensive jokes, name calling). Hate incidents are expressions of disrespectful bias, hate, harassment, or hostility against an individual or group because of the individual or group's actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, gender identification, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation. The conduct underlying some hate incidents might be protected speech, but still violate the University of Minnesota's commitment to civility and diversity. Constitutional rights will continue to be protected, but members of the University community also have the right to speak and engage in educational dialogue. Examples of hate incidents include offensive hate flyers or other hate materials, such as a demeaning caricature of a certain group. A hate incident is non-criminal in nature. Definition of Hate CrimeIf the behavior or action interferes with the civil rights of others, it is then a hate crime. The victim is intentionally selected because of his or her race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation (which includes gender identity in its definition). Examples of hate crimes include acts that result in injury, criminal damage to property, threats made or carried out, assault, and stalking. A hate crime is a criminal act or attempted criminal act. What You Can DoThe University encourages the gathering of people having diverse experiences and perspectives. You can contribute to and benefit from the community by exploring the different viewpoints and ideas that are represented. Following are some suggestions on what you can do to promote a healthy campus climate:
Advice for Victims
Reporting an Incident or CrimeIf you are a victim of a hate crime (criminal in nature), immediately call 911 for emergencies or (218) 726-7000 for University Police. If you, someone you know, or a group within our university community, has experienced bias, discrimination, or hostility, please report the incident. Those that occur in University housing should be reported to UMD Housing and Residential Life staff. Hate incidents may also be report to the Office of Equal Opportunity. You may also file a report online at: http://www.d.umn.edu/umdoeo/bias_discrimination_harassment_reporting_form.html We are concerned about incidents based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, gender identification, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status and/or sexual orientation. The University will provide support and address disrespectful bias and discrimination within our community. It is important that incidents are reported, so that we can respond and help those who are targeted. By reporting incidents, you become part of the solution. Reasons for reporting an incident:
Campus ResourcesThere are numerous places at UMD where you can receive assistance in addressing hate incidents and crimes:
Additional Resources
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