Frequently Asked Questions

The Civil Rights Office ensures compliance with federal and state civil rights laws, such as Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The office works to prevent and address discrimination, harassment, and retaliation affecting students, employees, and the campus community.

 The Civil Rights Office addresses complaints of:

  • Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age.
  • Harassment, including sexual harassment and hostile work or educational environments.
  • Retaliation against individuals for reporting discrimination or participating in investigations.

 You have the right to:

  • Learn and work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
  • File a complaint if you experience or witness discrimination or harassment.
  • Access resources and supportive measures during and after a complaint process.

Yes. The Civil Rights Office supports all members of the campus community, including students, staff, and faculty, as well as applicants for employment or admission.

The Civil Rights Office handles complaints with discretion, sharing information only as necessary to investigate and address the issue. Complete confidentiality cannot always be guaranteed, especially if the office must act to address safety concerns.

Once a complaint is filed:

  1. The Civil Rights Office conducts an initial assessment to determine whether the issue falls under its jurisdiction.
  2. If appropriate, a formal investigation begins, during which evidence is collected, and parties are interviewed.
  3. A decision is made, and if needed, remedial actions are implemented.

Supportive measures may include:

  • Adjustments to work or academic schedules.
  • No-contact directives between involved parties.
  • Counseling or access to mental health resources.
  • Temporary housing or work relocations.

Yes. The Civil Rights Office provides supportive measures regardless of whether a formal complaint is filed.

  • Discrimination involves unfavorable treatment based on a protected characteristic, such as race, gender, or religion.
  • Harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.

Yes. Sexual harassment is considered a form of sex-based discrimination and is addressed under Title IX.  You can visit the Title IX website here: https://www.napavalley.edu/about/title-ix/index.html

 

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