Implementing University Policies and Reporting
Dear members of the Northwestern community,
As we promised in our Sept. 5 message, we are writing to share an update on the implementation of Northwestern’s new policies.
Seven weeks after the changes to the policies regarding demonstrations and other expressive activities were announced, the vast majority of campus activity has complied with them. We greatly appreciate the community’s willingness to adapt and protect an environment where each of us can do our best work as students, faculty and staff.
Dating back to last spring, we have received reports of harassment and discrimination against members of the Northwestern community who are Palestinian, Israeli, Arab, Jewish and Muslim. Let us again affirm: Hate and intimidation are not acceptable at Northwestern, and these matters are under review for potential discipline.
If at any time you experience or witness violence, harassment, intimidation, discrimination or any other threatening behavior, we ask that you report it, even if you want to remain anonymous. Among the updates to the Policy on Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct is a provision that the University may proceed as complainant in a formal investigation if individuals choose not to. Cases submitted to the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance that do not meet the standard for a formal investigation or that implicate other University policies are forwarded, as appropriate, to other offices such as the Office of Community Standards, the Office of the Provost or Human Resources. For more information on the University's processes related to reports of discrimination and harassment, please see the Resource Guide.
We are dedicated to the guiding principles of our institution, and they should continue to guide the ways we live, work and learn together. No matter what campus you are on, we wish you a successful, rewarding fall. We all play a part in making the Northwestern experience the best it can be for every member of our wonderful community.