At ACC, we embrace our values of courage, compassion, joy, and yes. At the core of these values is an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment for all students, employees, and community members. While some types of misconduct must be reported by law, others, though not subject to mandatory reporting, deserve the same amount of attention and support.
A bias motivated, or bias related, incident is verbal, written, or physical behavior or action directly against or targeted towards an individual or group based on perceived or actual protected characteristics. This page outlines reporting options and how ACC employees can supportively refer students and colleagues who experience discrimination or harassment not related to sex or gender.
For mandatory reporting of sexual misconduct, see Title IX: Employee Reporting Requirements.
What this Covers
Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation that is non-sex/gender based against students can be based on the following characteristics:
- Race
- Color
- National Origin
- Disability
Employment based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation that is non-sex/gender based can include the following characteristics:
- Race
- Color
- National Origin
- Disability
- Religion
- Age
- Veteran Status
- Genetic Information
Examples of bias include the following:
- Incidents include jokes or insults using racial, ethnic, or other slur;
- Commenting online or through social media related to someone’s identity;
- Defacing or vandalizing, threatening, destructing personal property, or harassing;
- Hate messages, symbols, or images;
- Belittling someone’s language, accent or traditions;
- Using stereotypes when talking about someone.
Self Reporting (Voluntary)
If you are a student or employee who has experienced discrimination or harassment under these categories, you are encouraged to report the incident to the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance. While reporting is not legally required in these cases, your report helps ACC respond appropriately, prevent recurrence, and offer support.
More information, including timelines for submitting complaints, see EOC Policies & Definitions.
Supporting Others (Referrals)
If a student or colleague confides in you about experiencing discrimination or harassment not involving sex or gender:
- You are encouraged to connect them with the Equal Opportunity Compliance Office
- Offer to assist them in reaching out or share the contact information below
- Respect their privacy while still guiding them toward available support and resolution options
Important: Being an empathetic listener and connecting someone to resources can make a lasting impact. Oftentimes, individuals are not ready to self report but it should ultimately be their decision if or when they are ready to take action.
How to Submit a Report
Charlene Buckley
Director, Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance
Highland Campus
6101 Highland Campus Dr.
Bldg. 3000, Ste. 2270
Austin, TX 78752
Direct Phone: 512-223-7964
Email: charlene.buckley@austincc.edu or equalopportunity@austincc.edu