Harassment and Discrimination

How is a Bias Incident Different From Harassment?
Bias incidents may be speech, conduct or expression that target a person, a group or property. These acts may be motivated by a bias or hostility on the basis of perceived or actual membership in a protected class (race, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, etc.).

Examples of bias incidents include name-calling and graffiti. Some bias incidents may constitute harassment particularly when the harassing behavior interferes with a person’s safety and security through intimidation, hostility or the creation of an offensive environment.

However, not all acts of harassment are motivated by a bias regarding an individual’s group membership.

How Does a Bias Incident Differ From Discrimination?
Unlawful discrimination refers to conduct that is prohibited by law where individuals are treated differently (not provided the same opportunity, or consideration) due to their group membership. An example would be denying the right of an individual in their 50’s to enroll for college level courses due to being older than the traditional college age students.