Editor,
There have been many articles in the Daily Lobo recently regarding civil rights issues that have affected the UNM community. Some of these incidents have involved possible criminal activity and are being investigated by law-enforcement personnel.
Other incidents may not involve criminal activity, but may, nevertheless, be improper behavior that is addressed by specific UNM policies and procedures. Further, it is important for all students, faculty and staff to be aware that the University's Office of Equal Opportunity is assigned responsibility for addressing claims of alleged civil rights discrimination based on federal- and state-protected categories of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, and age.
In addition, claims of sexual harassment - including those by students against staff, faculty, another student or third parties (e.g. someone who is not a student or employee of the University) - should be reported directly to the office. The office will evaluate all reports of sexual harassment to determine whether the conduct fits within the definition of sexual harassment recognized by University policy. If so, the office will proceed with processing the reported incidents through the application of informal measures or, when warranted, a formal investigation. In those situations where the circumstances warrant a formal investigation, a final determination will be issued by the office at the conclusion of the investigation. The office is available to all University departments that are interested in receiving training or advice regarding civil rights and sexual harassment. It is located at 609 Buena Vista Drive N.E. It can be reached by phone at 277-5251.
Art Gonzales
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
Director
Office of Equal Opportunity
