Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, is committed to fostering an environment that is safe
and secure and free from sexual and gender-based discrimination and harassment,
sexual violence, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and other related
misconduct. The university recognizes its responsibility to increase awareness
of such misconduct, prevent its occurrence, support victims, deal fairly and
firmly with offenders, and diligently investigate reports of misconduct. In
addressing these issues, all members of the university must come together to
respect and care for one another in a manner consistent with our deeply held
academic and community values. This policy applies to student conduct and
prohibits a broad range of behaviors focused on sex and/or gender that may or
may not be sexual in nature. Sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual
exploitation, gender-based harassment, stalking, and relationship violence
(including dating and domestic violence) are all forms of misconduct that are
prohibited by this policy and will not be tolerated by the university.
This policy sets forth how the university
defines and addresses sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual violence,
stalking and relationship violence, and related misconduct involving university
students. The policy first sets forth the scope and jurisdiction of the policy.
It then defines key concepts, including the full range of prohibited conduct.
Next, it describes reporting options, and explains whether and to what extent
interactions with various resources are confidential. The policy then discusses
the university's response procedures, including services and measures that may
be available in particular cases to support and assist students and informal
resolution options. The response procedures further describe the investigation,
determination, sanctioning, and appeal processes for matters in which students
are accused of prohibited conduct, as well as the affected students' rights in
connection with the process. The last section is a comprehensive listing of resources
available to students affected by sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual
violence, sexual exploitation, stalking, and relationship violence.
The university is committed to the principles of academic
freedom and believes that vigorous discussion and debate, as well as free
inquiry and free expression, are an integral part of the university
community. Nothing in the policy shall
be construed to abridge academic freedom and inquiry, principles of free
speech, or the university's educational mission.
Descriptions of
violations and procedures for addressing violations are described in the
policy. The full policy can be found at http://policies.rutgers.edu/sites/policies/files/10.3.12-current.pdf.
