Discrimination: Treatment or consideration based on class or category rather than individual merit; partiality or prejudice.
Harassment: Relates to the intimidation and generally poor treatment of people based on one of the protected classes.
East Carolina University policy states that, “no employee may engage in speech or conduct that is defined as unlawful workplace harassment.” East Carolina University further defines harassment as, unwelcome or unsolicited speech or conduct based upon race, sex, creed, religion, national origin, age, color, disability, sexual orientation or veterans status that creates a hostile work environment or circumstances involving quid pro quo.
Federal and state laws as well as university policies protect individuals in the ten protected classes from harassment or discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or veterans’ status. For a list of definitions of each protected class click here.
East Carolina University has systems in place to receive and investigate harassment or discrimination complaints. If you feel that you have been harassed or discriminated against contact the University Equity Officer, Taffye Benson Clayton, within the Office of Equal Opportunity and Equity. Mrs. Clayton’s office can be reached by calling (252) 328-6804 or be reached by email at claytont@ecu.edu.
Grievance Reporting Form
