It shall be the policy of Bellevue College, consistent with efforts to respect the dignity and integrity of both employees and students, to provide an environment free of sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. It occurs in a variety of situations which share a common element: the inappropriate introduction of sexual activities or comments into the work or learning situation. Often, sexual harassment involves relationships of unequal power, and contains elements of coercion—as when compliance with requests for sexual favors becomes a criterion for granting work, study, or grading benefits. However, sexual harassment may also involve relationships among equals, as when repeated sexual advances or demeaning verbal behavior have a harmful effect on a person's ability to study or work in the academic setting.

For general policy purposes, the term "sexual harassment" may include, without limitation, such behavior as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other physical or verbal conduct and expressive behavior of a sexual nature where:

• Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or education.
• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting that individual.
• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or demeaning employment or educational environment.

The college recognizes its moral, ethical, and legal responsibilities regarding sexual harassment and will take appropriate action to rid the institution of such conduct.

Visit our website to read complete list college policies http://bellevuecollege.edu/policies/.

This website does not include department-specific policies or procedures.
Please contact the appropriate department for more information.