Reporting Bias or Hate Incidents
Respect NU encompasses a reporting system where students are encouraged to submit any bias or hate related incidents that they observe on Northwestern University's campus. Respect NU is supported by the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) which is a group of committed administrators representing various departments within the Division of Student Affairs. While the BIRT is not authorized to sanction any offenders, they are committed to proactively responding to instances of hate and bias in the following ways:
- Support students who are targets or witnesses of hate or bias incidents
- Refer students to available campus resources and services including units that will conduct formal investigations
- Promote dialogue within the campus community about the impact of hate and bias
- Advocate for new programs, initiative, policies, and services that will promote a more inclusive Northwestern University
Northwestern University is committed to the principles of free inquiry and free expression which are central to the mission of the University. Incidents of hate and bias that violate Northwestern's Policy on Discrimination and Harassment, the Student Code of Conduct, or other university rules, regulations, and policies are not legally protected expressions, are not the proper exercise of academic freedom, and may be grounds for University disciplinary action. Such incidents are taken seriously by the NU administration and the campus community. Visit the Office of Community Standards page for more information.