A Commitment to Inclusion and Equal Rights

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all members of our community. Our Statement of Non-Discrimination reflects our commitment to ensuring equal access to educational opportunities, employment, and participation in programs and activities, free from discrimination or harassment. We recognize the value of diversity and strive to create an atmosphere where all individuals can thrive, regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics. This policy is integral to maintaining a fair, equitable, and supportive environment for everyone.

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Statement of Non-Discrimination

No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Additionally, discrimination in employment based on membership or activity in a local commission, as defined by law, is prohibited.

Harassment on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is prohibited. Harassment may occur in various relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and others who have business at or are visiting the educational or working environment.

This policy addresses verbal or physical conduct that constitutes discrimination or harassment under state and federal law, and is not intended to restrict the content of speech. In cases involving verbal statements and other forms of expression, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities will consider an individual’s constitutionally protected right to free speech and academic freedom. However, discrimination and harassment are not protected by academic freedom or free speech.

The system office, colleges, and universities shall maintain and encourage full freedom, within the law, of expression, inquiry, teaching, and research. Academic freedom carries a responsibility to ensure that all members of our educational community can benefit from it without intimidation, exploitation, or coercion.

This policy applies to all individuals affiliated with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, including but not limited to students, employees, applicants, volunteers, agents, and members of the Board of Trustees. It is intended to protect the rights and privacy of both the complainant and respondent, as well as others involved, while preventing retaliation or reprisal. Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary or corrective action.

This policy supersedes all existing system, college, and university equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policies.

St. Cloud State University Statement of Non-Discrimination

St. Cloud State University is committed to providing equal education and employment opportunities to all persons in accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (CRA), as amended. The CRA prohibits discrimination in educational programs under Title IX and employment under Title VII based on race, color, national origin, sex, or religion. Federal law also prohibits discrimination based on age, disability, pregnancy, and certain Veteran status. The State of Minnesota further prohibits discrimination based on marital status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, or membership on a human rights commission.

In compliance with the law and as an integral part of its mission, St. Cloud State University is dedicated to providing equal education and employment opportunities to all students and employees, regardless of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or status as a U.S. veteran.

To fulfill this commitment, St. Cloud State University not only prohibits discrimination but also takes affirmative steps to prevent sexual and discriminatory harassment in the workplace and classroom. Students or employees who have concerns or uncertainties about possible harassment or discrimination are encouraged to contact the university's Designated Equity & Access Officer, ADA Coordinator, and Title IX Compliance Coordinator. Additional policies and procedures related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual assault, as well as information on available resources, can be found at www.stcloudstate.edu/oea/policies.