Introduction to UPenn Title IX Policy
The University of Pennsylvania is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all members of its community. In accordance with federal law, UPenn has established a Title IX policy to prevent and respond to sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence. This policy guide is designed to provide an overview of UPenn’s Title IX policy, including the procedures for reporting and investigating incidents, as well as the resources available to support students, faculty, and staff.What is Title IX?
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs and activities that receive federal funding. It applies to all aspects of education, including admissions, athletics, and employment. At UPenn, Title IX is enforced by the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, which is responsible for investigating complaints of sex-based discrimination and ensuring that the university is in compliance with federal law.Prohibited Conduct Under Title IX
UPenn’s Title IX policy prohibits a range of behaviors, including: * Sexual harassment: unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating environment * Sexual violence: physical acts of a sexual nature that are committed without consent, including rape, sexual assault, and sexual battery * Stalking: repeated behavior that is intended to cause fear or harm * Retaliation: taking adverse action against someone who has reported or participated in an investigation of sex-based discriminationReporting Incidents of Sex-Based Discrimination
If you or someone you know has experienced sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment or sexual violence, it is essential to report the incident to the university. You can report incidents to: * The Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs * The Department of Public Safety * A responsible employee, such as a professor, advisor, or coach You can also report incidents online through the UPenn Title IX reporting form.Investigation and Resolution Procedures
Once an incident is reported, the university will conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether sex-based discrimination has occurred. The investigation will be conducted by trained investigators who will gather evidence and interview witnesses. If the investigation finds that sex-based discrimination has occurred, the university will take prompt and effective action to stop the behavior and prevent its recurrence. This may include disciplinary action against the perpetrator, as well as supportive measures to help the complainant.Resources and Support
UPenn offers a range of resources and support services to help students, faculty, and staff who have experienced sex-based discrimination. These resources include: * Counseling and Psychological Services: confidential counseling and support * Student Health Service: medical care and support * Office of Student Conduct: support and resources for students who have experienced sex-based discrimination * Employee Assistance Program: confidential counseling and support for employeesPrevention and Education
UPenn is committed to preventing sex-based discrimination through education and awareness. The university offers a range of programs and initiatives, including: * Sexual violence prevention training: mandatory training for all students, faculty, and staff * Bystander intervention training: training to help individuals intervene safely and effectively in situations where sex-based discrimination is occurring * Healthy relationships programming: programs and initiatives to promote healthy relationships and respect| Resource | Description | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Counseling and Psychological Services | Confidential counseling and support | 215-898-7021 |
| Student Health Service | Medical care and support | 215-898-7272 |
| Office of Student Conduct | Support and resources for students who have experienced sex-based discrimination | 215-898-7246 |
| Employee Assistance Program | Confidential counseling and support for employees | 215-898-6150 |
📝 Note: This guide is not intended to be a comprehensive or exhaustive resource, but rather a starting point for understanding UPenn's Title IX policy and procedures.
In summary, UPenn’s Title IX policy is designed to prevent and respond to sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence. The university offers a range of resources and support services to help students, faculty, and staff who have experienced sex-based discrimination, and is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members of its community.
What is Title IX and how does it apply to UPenn?
+Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs and activities that receive federal funding. At UPenn, Title IX is enforced by the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, which is responsible for investigating complaints of sex-based discrimination and ensuring that the university is in compliance with federal law.
How do I report an incident of sex-based discrimination?
+You can report incidents to the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, the Department of Public Safety, or a responsible employee, such as a professor, advisor, or coach. You can also report incidents online through the UPenn Title IX reporting form.
What resources and support services are available to help students, faculty, and staff who have experienced sex-based discrimination?
+UPenn offers a range of resources and support services, including Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Health Service, Office of Student Conduct, and Employee Assistance Program. These resources provide confidential counseling and support, medical care and support, and support and resources for students who have experienced sex-based discrimination.