Policy on Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct

Effective August 12, 2024

Northwestern prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ethnicity, caste, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, reproductive health decision making, height, weight, or any other classification protected by law (referred to as "protected statuses or protected characteristics") in the educational programs or activities Northwestern operates, including but not limited to matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services. Prohibited discrimination based on sex includes sexual misconduct, including but not limited to, sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, stalking, and dating or domestic violence. Such conduct violates Northwestern's values and disrupts the living, learning, and working environment for students, faculty, staff, and other community members.

Pursuant to the Department of Education's 2020 regulations implementing Title IX, the University has adopted an Interim Policy on Title IX Sexual Harassment, which governs certain instances of sexual misconduct. Allegations of sexual misconduct that do not fall within the jurisdiction of the Interim Policy on Title IX Sexual Harassment may fall within the jurisdiction of this Policy. Other forms of misconduct not covered by this policy or the Interim Policy on Title IX Sexual Harassment.

The University has adopted standards of conduct for all members of our community – students, faculty and staff, as well as University vendors, contractors, visitors, guests, volunteers, interns, and third parties.