Discrimination Complaint Procedure

Overview

The University is committed to resolving complaints of illegal discrimination at the earliest and most informal level, conducting internal investigations in a timely and effective manner, adhering to the principles of due process in all investigations and hearings, and providing prompt corrective action if discrimination is found to have occurred.

 

No individual shall be penalized, or retaliated against in any way by a member of the University community for their participation in this complaint procedure. For a complete list of referral sources, contact Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance (CRTC).

     

    There are two processes used by the CRTC to resolve concerns of illegal discrimination: informal resolution and formal complaint.

    Legally Protected Characteristics

    Western's Discrimination Complaint Procedure is limited to complaints which allege discrimination on the basis of:

    • Race
    • Ethnicity
    • Color
    • National origin
    • Age
    • Citizenship or immigration status
    • Pregnancy, or use of protective leave
    • Genetic status
    • Sex
    • Sexual orientation
    • Gender identity
    • Gender expression
    • Marital status
    • Creed
    • Religion
    • Veteran or military status
    • Disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability

    Informal Resolution

    The Informal Resolution process occurs when you discuss your concern with the party or parties involved and/or with the appropriate supervisor or department chair. You may use the CRTC to assist early in the process. If you do not achieve a satisfactory resolution, you may request help from the CRTC in seeking a resolution.

    Formal Complaint

    A formal complaint begins when an individual submits a complaint form to the CRTC that includes a written statement of the alleged act or acts of illegal discrimination. The CRTC will determine if it has jurisdiction within 10 working days. If the CRTC has jurisdiction then an investigation will be conducted. The respondent will be sent a copy of your complaint and given the opportunity to submit a written response.

    The investigation and a written report of findings will be completed in 60 working days unless there is an extension. A Vice President will review the report and determine appropriate actions within 10 working days after receiving the investigative report. The Vice President’s action will be documented in writing and provided to appropriate parties.

    External Agencies

     An individual may also choose to file a discrimination complaint by contacting one of the following agencies within their established time limits.

     

    OFCCP

    Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs

    Pacific Region 

    90 7th Street, Suite #18-300 

    San Francisco, CA 94103-1516 

    Phone: (415) 625-7800 

    TTY: 1-877-889-5627

    WSHRC

    Washington State Human Rights Commission

    711 S. Capitol Way, Suite 402 

    P.O. Box 42490 

    Olympia, WA 98504-2490 

    Phone: (360) 753-6770 

    Toll Free: 1-800-233-3247 

    TTY: 1-800-300-7525

    EEOC

    Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

    Seattle Field Office 

    909 First Avenue, Suite 400 

    Seattle, WA 98104-1061 

    Phone: 1-800-669-4000 

    TTY: 1-800-669-6820

    Health & Human Services

    U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office for Civil Rights

    2201 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, MS: RX-11 

    Seattle, WA 98121-1831 

    Phone: (206) 615-2290 

    TTD: (206) 615-2296

    Department of Education

    U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights

    915 2nd Avenue, Room 3310 

    Seattle, WA 98174-1099 

    Phone: (206) 607-1600 

    TTD: (206) 607-1647