Defining and Addressing a Community Concern

We cannot tolerate harassment of any member of our community. The Office for Equity and Diversity (OED) can assist with concerns about any type of prohibited harassment or discrimination, including harassment based on gender, race, religion, ethnicity, age, disability, and sexual orientation. This website is designed to help prevent and respond to sexual harassment.

When sexual harassment occurs, it degrades the quality of work and education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It erodes the dignity and productivity of the individuals involved and diminishes the quality, effectiveness, and stature of the institution. Sexual harassment not only violates the law and university policy but also can damage personal and professional relationships; cause career or economic disadvantage, and expose the university to legal liabilities, a loss of federal research funds and other financial consequences. For all these reasons, it is in our best interest to educate all community members and take other steps necessary to prevent sexual harassment. We have a collective responsibility to do so, thereby promoting an environment that better supports excellence in teaching, research, and service.

Sexual harassment is a community concern. Any one of us may experience harassment, be accused of harassment, or be consulted by someone who thinks he or she has been harassed. Sexual harassment can affect workplace relationships or learning relationships. It can occur in any university setting (an office, a classroom, a university program). Each of us has a duty not to harass others and to act responsibly when confronted by the issue of sexual harassment. Principal investigators, supervisors, managers, department chairs, directors and deans have additional responsibilities: individuals in positions of authority must take reasonable measures to prevent sexual harassment and take immediate and appropriate action when they learn of allegations of sexual harassment.

Many people are not sure what to do to help someone who thinks that he or she has been harassed. This website will provide information about what to do, advice for conversations and resources to contact for further advice.