This message was shared with the faculty, staff and students of the 10-campus University of Hawaiʻi system on March 30, 2020.
Aloha University of Hawaiʻi students:
As we all come to terms with the many changes and the disruption of connections and routines that sustain and comfort us, we want to reach out and remind you that we are here for you. The university remains committed to maintaining communities and campus environments free from sex discrimination and gender-based violence.
We are aware that people who are surviving violence may be experiencing increased isolation and danger caused by confinement, economic stress and health insecurity. Our Title IX resources, mental health and counseling services, and community advocacy and legal services are working to continue our support for students and employees.
Many coordinators and on-campus and off-campus services are offering remote meetings and appointments, online or by phone, and some remain on campus for in-person assistance. We encourage you to contact services by email or by phone to make an appointment. In the event of an emergency, please call 911.
Contact information for all campus Title IX team members and on- and off-campus resources can be found at the UH System Title IX website.
Important reminders:
- Making a report: Student and employees impacted by sex discrimination are encouraged to contact their Title IX coordinator to make a report. Complaint processing, investigations and interim measures, will continue to ensure that any type of discriminatory behavior is addressed promptly.
- Behaviors, persons and places covered by UH policy: The University of Hawaiʻi Policies and Procedures relevant to Sex Discrimination and Gender-Based Violence include behaviors that occur between students, faculty, staff, and third parties. This applies to online and virtual misconduct. Any behavior that is prohibited by policy is also prohibited in cyber-forms, including cyber-harassment, cyber-bullying and cyber-stalking. Each person is expected to engage in non-discriminatory and respectful behavior during online classes and meetings just as they would be expected to if they were in class or a meeting physically.
- Responsible employees: Faculty and staff members who are designated as Responsible Employees under UH Policy and Procedure on Sex Discrimination and Gender-Based Violence are reminded that reporting of alleged gender-based and sexual misconduct is expected within 3 calendar days of the moment they become aware of incidents or allegations involving behavior that potentially violates UH sex discrimination policy, regardless of how they learn of the potential misconduct, whether in person, in writing or online. Students should be aware that disclosures made to faculty members and other employees designated as Responsible Employees cannot be kept confidential. Access confidential advice and guidance at Confidential Resources.
- Legal services in the community: Please be aware that all essential court proceedings, including restraining order and protective order hearings, are still occuring. For assistance with or information on legal proceedings, please contact your local community service providers. More information from the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary.
All referenced resources including confidential resource information, Title IX Coordinator contact information, UH non-discrimination policies and guidance, and online Title IX training can be found at the Title IX website.
Stay safe and be well!
The Office of Institutional Equity
institutional.equity@hawaii.edu
