Anti-Discrimination Policy

Policy Statement

An-Najah National University is committed to fostering a campus environment free from discrimination and bias. All forms of unfair treatment based on religion, gender, age, race, ethnicity, disability, or any other protected characteristic are strictly prohibited. Every member of the University community is entitled to respect, dignity, and equal opportunities, and the University actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and a culture of equity for all. 

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all students, faculty, staff, and visitors are protected from discrimination. It aims to promote an inclusive environment. It seeks to clarify responsibilities. It provides a process for reporting and addressing concerns.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the An-Najah National University community, including students, faculty, administrative and support staff, contractors, volunteers, interns, and visitors. It governs all university activities and environments, including classrooms, offices, research, campus facilities, events, online interactions, and extracurricular programs. The policy also extends to off-campus behavior when it impacts the University community or its reputation.

Definitions

• Discrimination: treating someone less favorably based on a protected characteristic.

• Protected characteristics: include (but are not limited to) race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, nationality, age, and social origin.

• Complainant: the person who reports discrimination or harassment.

• Respondent: the person against whom a complaint is made.

Principles

• Equality and Fairness:
  All individuals shall be treated equitably, with decisions based on merit and qualifications, free from bias or prejudice.

• Respect and Dignity:
  Every member of the University community has the right to be treated with respect and dignity, fostering a culture of mutual respect.

• Inclusion:
  The University is committed to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes diversity and ensures all individuals feel valued and supported.

• Accountability:
  All members of the University community are responsible for upholding this policy and are accountable for their actions.

• Transparency:
  Processes related to addressing discrimination shall be transparent, ensuring trust and confidence in the University's commitment to equality.

Responsibilities

• University leadership: to uphold this policy, allocate resources, ensure training, and enforce decisions.

• Managers, supervisors, faculty: to prevent discrimination in their areas, intervene when they see problems, and guide others to report issues.

• All community members: to act respectfully, speak up when they see violations, and cooperate with investigations.

• Grievances and Complaints Committee: to receive, investigate, and resolve reports; to provide support; to monitor data and recommend improvements.

Reporting and Procedures

1. A person who believes they have experienced discrimination may submit a formal complaint in writing.

2. The complaint should describe the facts: who, what, where, when, and witnesses.

3. The Grievances and Complaints Committee in charge will assess whether the complaint falls under this policy.

4. If accepted, an investigation will be initiated.

5. Investigators will interview relevant parties, collect evidence, and make findings.

6. Based on findings, the decision-maker will issue appropriate remedies or sanctions.

7. Both parties will have an opportunity to respond, appeal, or request review.

8. The process should be fair, impartial, and timely.

Actions and Penalties

   Possible actions include:

• Training, counseling, or mediation

• Warnings, reprimands

• Suspension or termination (for staff or faculty)

• Disciplinary actions under student code (for students)

• Other measures to restore equity and safety

Related Policies

This Anti- Discrimination Policy is supported by and aligns with the following University policies:

• Anti-Harassment Policy

• Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy

• Equitable and Inclusive Student Admissions Policy

• Employment Matters Policy

Monitoring and Review

• The university will collect and analyze data on complaints, outcomes, and trends.

• The policy will be reviewed periodically (e.g. every 2–3 years).

Effective Date: October 12, 2016

Review Date: Jun 19, 2024