Harassment Policies

Faculty, administration, staff, and students are responsible for maintaining an educational and working environment that is harmonious with Bethel’s mission and program as a Christian learning community. Verbal or physical harassment of any member of the Bethel community based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, or disability destroys that harmony. Such misconduct is a violation of Bethel policy and of state and federal law. While the goal of Bethel’s sexual and racial harassment policies is to bring reconciliation and restoration of relationships, appropriate action—educational or disciplinary, including suspension or dismissal—will be taken against any person found to have violated such a policy. Incidents will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Copies of Bethel’s Sexual Harassment Policy and Racial Harassment Policy are available in the Office of Student Life, the Office of the Provost, and the Office of Human Resources. These policies define what constitutes sexual and racial harassment and outline procedures for pursuing a grievance.

Sexual violence is the highest violation of the Sexual Harassment Policy. Sexual violence is a criminal act and will not be tolerated in the Bethel community. Bethel is prepared to take prompt action against date rape or any other form of sexual assault. Racial violence is the highest violation of the Racial Harassment Policy. Racial violence is a criminal act and will not be tolerated in the Bethel community. Bethel is prepared to take prompt action against any form of racial assault.

Any person reporting harassment, sexual or racial assault, or violence will be treated with care, concern, and confidentiality. Support, assistance, and counseling are available to anyone who has been victimized. You are encouraged to report sexual or racial violence and seek help as soon as possible. To make a report, contact residence life staff, Counseling Services, the Office of Student Life, the Office of Human Resources, or grievance officers.