The University of Kentucky is committed to maintaining an environment free of prohibited discrimination to foster an environment of respect for the dignity and worth of all University community members. Any member of the University of Kentucky community who believes they have experienced discrimination, harassment, or retaliation may bring their concerns to the Office of Equal Opportunity (Equal Opportunity). A staff member of Equal Opportunity is available to provide information on the investigative and resolution process.
Discrimination and Harassment
The Role of the Office of Equal Opportunity in Responding to Reports and Complaints of Discrimination
The Office of Equal Opportunity is responsible for upholding the University's commitment to equal opportunity for all members of the University's community in academic programs, research, service, and employment. Equal Opportunity's function is to determine whether University policies or procedures regarding discrimination and harassment have been followed. Equal Opportunity works to remedy the situation if policy violations are found and relieve the complainant of the burden forced on them by the inappropriate behavior.
The Office of Equal Opportunity provides timely, sensitive, and discreet responses to complaints and reports of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Equal Opportunity investigates complaints and reports thoroughly and impartially and works with University officials to arrive at an appropriate and equitable resolution. The Equal Opportunity Policy outlines more detail about the policies and procedures Equal Opportunity follows to resolve complaints related to discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Antisemitism
In investigating any complaints of antisemitism, the Office of Equal Opportunity utilizes the procedures above and the following definition of antisemitism, established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance and recognized by Kentucky 2021 Regular Session Senate Resolution 67:
Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
Read more about the definition and examples from IHRA here.
The Office of Equal Opportunity also collects and reports data as required by state law, including the number of antisemitism complaints and investigations.
In enforcing these policies, the university will adhere to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and similar provisions in the Kentucky Constitution.
View the entire Administrative Regulation: Equal Dignity (Interim)
View the entire Administrative Regulation: Due Process (Interim)