II.      Scope of Policy

Bates College denounces bias against, harassment of, and discrimination against any and all individuals or groups. All Bates community members, including students, employees, and volunteers, as well as visitors, are responsible for understanding and complying with this policy.^[1] The college will provide supportive measures as described in this policy to assist individuals in accessing the college’s educational program.

This policy provides community members with the structure and guidance to assist those who have been affected by discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, or other civil rights violations, whether as a Complainant, a Respondent, or a third party, and to provide fair and equitable procedures for investigation and resolution of reports. The policy may be applied to incidents, to patterns, and/or to the institutional culture/climate, all of which may be addressed in accordance with this policy.

When used in this policy and in alignment with the 2020 federal Title IX regulations, “Complainant” refers to an individual who is a target, victim, or survivor of any alleged conduct prohibited by this policy. “Respondent” refers to an individual who has been accused of prohibited conduct under this policy. “Third party” refers to any other participant in the process, including a witness to the incident or an individual who makes a report on behalf of someone else.

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^[1] For the purposes of the policy, Bates defines “student” as any student who is enrolled in academic coursework, has not fulfilled their degree requirements, and has a continuing relationship with the college.  “Employee” refers to all faculty and staff, including members of the administration and instructional staff.

^[2] This provision includes property owned or controlled by recognized student organizations.