December 8, 2020 - Introducing the Bias Hotline
Dear University Community,
As outlined in our strategic plan, UMSL is committed to the recruitment and retention of diverse students and employees and promoting activities that encourage civil and constructive discourse, reasoned thought and sustained dialogue in an environment of inclusion, respect and appreciation. We are pleased to share a new Bias Hotline as yet another method to support that commitment by providing an avenue for reporting bias incidents – either experienced or witnessed – by members of our university community.
If you experience, witness or suspect discriminatory behavior and/or conduct that conflicts with our university’s values, please take immediate action. If you are a student, discuss your concerns with your instructor, other university representatives or the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. If you are an employee, our updated policies require you to report any instance of discrimination or harassment of which you become aware, to the applicable Title IX Coordinator or Equity Officer.
Reports received on the Bias Hotline will be evaluated for response or referral. Additionally, the information received from the reports will help predict issues and identify pervasive concerns, which will allow us to channel our resources and develop more effective training and educational programs that directly address any trends identified through the hotline. While we understand that the hotline cannot always resolve or reverse the hurt that can be caused by incidents, we see it as an additional step forward in our comprehensive journey toward inclusive excellence. The Bias Hotline reflects our broader goal of building a culture of inclusivity where everyone knows and feels like they belong.
It is important to note that the Bias Hotline does not replace other methods for reporting concerns. Other reporting methods available to the university community include the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Title IX Office and the UM System Integrity and Accountability Hotline.
Thank you for your continued support of each other and our collective Triton community.
Sincerely,
Kristin Sobolik
Chancellor
University of Missouri–St. Louis
