Bias refers to the presence of preconceived opinions, attitudes, or prejudices that lead to unfair treatment, discriminatory actions, or expressions of hostility against an individual/s or groups based on their actual or perceived characteristics. 

Click here for a list of examples of potential bias and how they may manifest.

Any student may file a bias incident report against fellow student(s), or against faculty and staff.

Student complaints against faculty and staff will be reviewed and if appropriate, assigned to Human Resources.

Faculty or staff should utilize Human Resources/Employee Relations with bias concerns.

Reporting a bias incident helps to ensure our community addresses issues that impact our ability to cultivate the trust and cultural humility that are essential components of community building and learning at Emory. Reporting bias incidents also ensures that members of our community receive necessary support resources.  In addition, this information provides the university with a record of current issues on campus and enables the community to track trends and further develop response mechanisms.

1. Once you submit a report, Bias Support Services (BSS) will review the report and send a notification to the complainant(s) within two business days. 
   
   
2. A member of the Bias Support Team will coordinate initial meetings with the complainant and respondent to discuss any necessary referrals, accommodations, or support measures that may be required due to the specific incident. 
   
   
3. BSS will review the report and associated materials. They will determine whether if the reported allegations are substantiated, would violate Emory University policies or procedures.
   
   
   1. If YES (a university policy/procedure may have been violated), the complainant and respondent will receive notification and the case is forwarded to the appropriate office for follow up. 
   2. If NO (the incident does not necessarily violate a university policy/procedure), the complainant and respondent will receive notification, the case is closed, and the both parties will be referred back to the BSS for any additional or continued support that may be needed.

The Bias Support Team (BST) supports both complainant and respondant through the bias reporting process (from initial report through review.) BST members have received specialized training to provide compassionate care for students through a trauma-informed approach, offering advocacy and support. 

In the event that a report is referred to the appropriate office for investigation, the BST will continue to provide support for both complainant and respondant. 

The Bias Support Team (BST) supports both complainant and respondant through the Bias reporting process (from initial report through review.) BST members have received specialized training to provide compassionate care for students through a trauma-informed approach, offering advocacy and support. 

In the event that a report is referred to the appropriate office for investigation, the BST will continue to provide support for both complainant and respondant.