GW's Commitment
GW is committed to maintaining a nondiscriminatory, harrassment-free, diverse work and educational environment. The university does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law in any of its programs, activities, or employment practices.
The Office of Access and Opportunity (OAO) has oversight responsibility for the implementation and management of the university’s Equal Opportunity, Nondiscrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Non-Retaliation Policy and supporting procedures. OAO provides central complaint intake, review, and referral for informal and investigative processes to address reports of discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation. In collaboration with other university units, OAO aims to uphold and maintain a GW environment free from discrimination and harassment on the basis of protected characteristics, taking action to stop the conduct, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects.
All SMHS faculty (including the MFA), staff, and students can use the Discrimination, Harassment and Bias Report Form.
What is Bias?
The Office of Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement (ODECE) defines bias as acts that are characterized by some expression of favor for or against a particular group or individual because of their membership (or perceived membership) in that group. Bias incidents may range from acts that are considered offensive to actions that cause harm.
What is Mistreatment?
Per the Mistreatment Policy, SMHS defines mistreatment as behavior that shows disrespect towards a person or group that interferes with the work or learning environment. This behavior may be verbal (swearing, humiliation), emotional (neglect, a hostile environment), or physical (threats, physical harm).
Resources about Reporting Bias - SMHS (students, faculty, and staff)
- Student Grievances Procedures
- Office of Professional & Respectful Learning
- Office of Conflict Education and Student Accountability (CESA).
Resources about Reporting Mistreatment - SMHS Students
- SMHS Mistreatment Policy and Procedures
- Mistreatment Reporting: Office of Professional and Respectful Learning
- Mistreatment Ombudspeople
Resources about Reporting Bias or Mistreatment - Residents/Fellows
- Offices, Committees, and Reporting System Resources for Residents/Fellows
- Mistreatment Reporting: Office of Professional and Respectful Learning
Resources about Reporting Bias or Mistreatment - MFA
All MFA staff can report any issues or concerns regarding bias or mistreatment through Compliance360. When using Compliance360, please select the appropriate web form to report any incidents or concerns you have.
Resources for Reporting Bias or Mistreatment - GW Hospital
"...Complaints of harassment or discrimination will be investigated promptly in an impartial and to the extent possible, confidential manner. If you feel you are being harassed or discriminated against in violation of this policy by another employee, supervisor, manager, or third-party doing business with GW Hospital, you should immediately contact your supervisor, department director, or Human Resources. In addition, if you observe harassment or discrimination by another employee, you should immediately report the incident to the individuals above. Appropriate action will also be taken in response to violations of this policy by any non-employee. Supervisors and managers have a duty to promptly report employee complaints and allegations of misconduct to Human Resources. Prompt notification of GW Hospital is essential to enforcing this policy. You will not be penalized in any way for reporting a harassment or discrimination incident."
To make a GW Police Department (GWPD) report, please use one of the methods below.
By Phone:
- Foggy Bottom/VSTC Campus: 202-994-6110
- Mount Vernon Campus: 202-242-6110
In an Emergency:
- Foggy Bottom Campus: 202-994-6111
- Mount Vernon Campus: 202-242-6111
- Virginia Science and Technology Campus (VSTC): 911
In Person: George Washington Police Department | Rome Hall 801 22nd Street, NW, Suite 101 Washington, DC 20052
Academic Freedom
The university is committed to the principles of academic freedom, including free inquiry and free expression, and the vigorous discussion and debate on which the advancement of the university’s educational mission depends. Incidents of bias, hate, or discrimination that violate the university’s Code of Student Conduct or other university rules, regulations, and policies are not legally protected expressions, are not the proper exercise of academic freedom, and may be grounds for university disciplinary action. Such incidents are taken seriously by the university and the campus community.
All members of the university community should recognize that bias, hate, or acts of discrimination impede one’s ability to participate fully in the community and compromise the integrity of the university. As community members, we strive to treat all members with respect and dignity.