Bias Impact Reporting

Pursuant to the University's ongoing commitment to inclusive excellence, the University's Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (the "ODEI") will support those who have been affected by potential bias, microaggressions, or prejudice; work with department/program leadership to review reported incidents and identify potential appropriate outcome(s); identify potential learning opportunities for University faculty, staff, and students, in small groups, in a particular College or unit, or at the University generally; and refer matters to appropriate University offices, including, without limitation, the University's Title IX Coordinator, Section 504 Coordinator, and/or General Counsel's Office, where appropriate.

We are committed to respecting your privacy relating to the information you submit through this form and any future related communications. Please note, however, the information you share through this form and any future communications is not confidential. Other offices and departments will receive the information you share, as appropriate, including without limitation, the academic leadership, Public Safety, and General Counsel's Office. Regardless of the circumstances, matters will be handled in conformity with the University's privacy policies and relevant applicable law. Information about individuals or situations will be shared with other individuals with a legitimate need to know. The University has a strong anti-retaliation policy in support of individuals who seek assistance in good faith relating to potential bias, microaggressions, and prejudice.

Individuals who believe they have experienced or encountered potential bias, prejudice, or microaggressions are encouraged to complete this form for our team to review and consider next steps.

Bias and Microagressions at Simmons University

Bias is a preconceived notion or preference for or against a person or group. This inclination is often based on stereotypes rather than an individual's actual merit. Protected characteristics, that bias can manifest in relation to:

• Race, color, ancestry, national or ethnic origin
• Natural or protective hairstyle
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
• Pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions
• Marital or parental status
• Religion
• Age
• Disability
• Veteran's status
• Socio-economic status
• Genetic predisposition

Microaggressions

Microaggressions are subtle, everyday verbal or nonverbal slights, snubs, or insults which communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages to individuals based upon their marginalized group membership. These actions may be intentional or unintentional. Simmons University explicitly states that microaggressions, along with bias and prejudice, have no place on its campus.

Microaggressions are often rooted in unconscious bias and can be categorized into three forms:

• Microassaults: Conscious and intentional discriminatory actions, such as using derogatory language.
• Microinsults: Communications that convey rudeness and insensitivity and demean a person's identity. An example would be expressing surprise that a person of a particular background is articulate.
• Microinvalidations: Communications that subtly exclude, negate, or nullify the thoughts, feelings, or experiential reality of a person from a marginalized group. An example is telling a person of color that you "don't see race."

Please note:

• Please list yourself as an involved party when making a report for yourself.
• The information you share through this form and any future communications is not confidential. Other offices and departments will receive the information you share, as appropriate, including without limitation, the academic leadership, Public Safety, and General Counsel's Office. Regardless of the circumstances, matters will be handled in conformity with the University's privacy policies and relevant applicable law. Information about individuals or situations will be shared with other individuals with a legitimate need to know. 

Unlawful Discrimination, Harassment, or Retaliation

Anyone needing to report an allegation of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should not use this form, but should instead following the reporting process outlined in the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination.

Concerns relating to the following may be reported to the following individuals:

• Anyone needing to report an allegation of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should not use this form, but should instead following the reporting process outlined in the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination and is encouraged to submit their report to the University's Office of the General Counsel, at [email protected]. Concerns relating to the following may be reported to the following individuals:
  • Reports of allegations of unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex, including sex discrimination, should be submitted to the University's Title IX Coordinator, Sara Simberg, at [email protected].
  • Reports of allegations of unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of disability should be submitted to the University's Section 504 Coordinator, Djuna Perkins, at [email protected].

Bias Incident Form