Harassment, Discrimination, and Sexual Misconduct

The University of Chicago’s Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Sexual Misconduct applies while you are participating in a UChicago study abroad program. You are encouraged to familiarize yourself with this policy and to let us know if you have questions about this information in the context of study abroad.

Choosing to Disclose

(from UMatter.uchicago.edu)

The University encourages students to talk to someone about any possible violation of the University’s Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Sexual Misconduct and wants students to be fully informed about what happens to information disclosed to University employees. We want students to get the help and support they need, and to learn about their options for reporting so the University can respond appropriately.

University employees not designated as confidential resources are considered Individuals with Title IX Reporting Responsibilities. Individuals with Title IX Reporting Responsibilities must report all incidents of sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking (referred to here as “sexual misconduct”) to the Title IX Coordinators. Individuals with Title IX Reporting Responsibilities cannot guarantee confidentiality, but will treat information as privately as possible. All members of the faculty and many other academic appointees and staff—including Study Abroad program staff—are individuals with Title IX Reporting Responsibilities and, as such, are obligated to report sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator.

For more information about University resources and confidentiality options for students, please see the following one-pager. Included in this resource is information about employees deemed to be confidential resources.

If you experience sexual harassment or assault abroad and choose to disclose this to the program staff, they can help in the following ways:

  • Help to ensure your immediate safety and well-being
  • Listen to you and support you
  • Provide referrals to local and on-campus resources (medical, mental health, police)
  • Liaise with the University’s Title IX Coordinator (note that this is mandatory for the staff, but you do not have to engage if you do not want to)

Support and Resources

For students who may have experienced sexual violence: