Any individual who harasses or abuses another is subject to the dispute resolution and disciplinary procedures of the College and such civil and criminal laws as may pertain. The College expects its members will educate themselves about such behavior and be vigilant in protecting the right to an environment free of harassment and abuse. In addition, it is a gross misdemeanor to intentionally harass a person by engaging in certain acts which cause the person to feel oppressed, persecuted or intimidated. Such acts include stalking or threatening a person, sending packages, letters or telegrams to a person, and making telephone calls to a person with the intent to harass them. It is the fundamental belief of Macalester College that the process of learning is best achieved in a community that recognizes and reflects diversity and encourages the open and frank exchange of ideas.
Racial harassment can stifle the learning process and discourage that exchange.
Macalester College is committed to assuring that students, faculty and staff enjoy an educational environment and a work setting that promotes respect for cultural values and racial differences. The College recognizes the complexity of defining language and actions that are not acceptable in a community which values freedom of expression. Freedom of expression does not include the right to intentionally and maliciously aggravate, intimidate, ridicule or humiliate another person. In defining racial harassment, it is necessary to consider the knowledge, intention and willingness of the individual alleged to be guilty of harassment. Definition At Macalester, racial harassment is defined as verbal, written or physical conduct which refers to one's race and where such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's academic, social or work related participation in the College community.