What is a Bias Incident?

A bias incident is a negative act directed toward an individual or a group based on actual or perceived background or identity, such as:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender identity
  • Gender expression
  • National origin/citizenship
  • Race/ethnicity
  • Religion
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation
  • Veteran status
  • Or other identities/backgrounds

Bias Response Team

The Bias Response Team (an OSU-wide team with representation from OSU-Cascades) meets regularly to evaluate and collaboratively respond to bias incidents in an effort to create and maintain a more inclusive, welcoming and safe campus experience for all students, faculty, and staff.

To accomplish this mission, the Bias Response Team applies the Reported Bias Incident Protocol to:

  • Provide care and support to community members who may be negatively affected by bias incidents
  • Engage in a restorative process to educate community members about the harmful impact of bias incidents
  • Develop and implement strategies to reduce the occurrence of bias incidents

Learn more about the Bias Response Process or contact Diversity Coordinator Erin Rook with questions about bias response and resources on the OSU-Cascades campus.