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Policy Statement
Flinders University abhors acts of racism. The University
promotes an environment which is free from any form of illegal
discrimination and acts of racism are not condoned within
the University. Administrative and/or disciplinary steps will
be taken to deal with any such acts or activities brought
to the University's attention.
This policy is not intended to interfere with the affirmative
action strategies of the University's Equity Plan.
The mere fact that a particular act or series of acts causes
offence to a person or persons of particular racial origin
does not of itself mean that the act or series of acts breaches
this policy.
This policy is not intended to interfere with academic, artistic,
scientific or research activities, discussions or debates.
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Definition
An act of racism is any action involving a distinction, exclusion,
restriction or preference based on colour, descent, religion
or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect
of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise,
on an equal footing, of any right or freedom available within
the University.
Commonwealth and State Government legislation makes racial
discrimination unlawful. Categories of racism include:
- Individual racism involves specific acts of racist behaviour
by individuals or groups. This can include language or actions
of a racist nature which are offensive, degrading, intimidating
or embarrassing;
- Institutional racism describes the way social institutions
discriminate directly or indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally,
through their structures and organisations to support or
maintain racism.
- Cultural racism involves the social production and reproduction
of racist beliefs and ideas, both implicit and explicit.
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3. |
Education
The University has a separate Grievance Procedure which covers
complaints under this policy. This policy covers:
Informal Complaints
Informal complaints may be made in writing or orally and
are dealt with by Contact Officers and Conciliators.
Formal Complaints
Formal complaints must be made in writing to the Vice-Chancellor
and will be dealt with under the University's Formal Grievance
Procedures.
Complaints of racism can also be made in relation to acts
that are directed at a particular category of people rather
than towards a particular individual. In such instances, representative
associations can lodge complaints on behalf of their members. |
