Racism is the doctrine or belief that race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origins determines the intellectual, behavioural or moral attributes of people and that some groups, defined by these characteristics, are superior to others. Racism is given expression through prejudice and discrimination. Racial prejudice refers to the holding of negative attitudes about other people because of their race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin. Examples of racial prejudice may include making judgements or assumptions about other groups in terms of the norms and values of one's own cultural group, and the use of negative stereotypes for people in particular groups. Racial discrimination is defined as the negative differential treatment of individuals or groups on the basis of their race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin.
Racial harassment is one means by which racial discrimination is practised.
The list is not exhaustive and the University recognises that behaviours that may be regarded as harmless, trivial, a joke or acceptable by one person may be racial discrimination or harassment to those who find offence. These matters not only apply to power relationships, but also to relationships between persons of equal or similar status, such as between students, or between colleagues. If an individual feels unable to do this, or if the personal approach does not result in the cessation of the behaviour in question, an individual may choose to use the University's internal grievance procedures. Staff members should first contact the Equity Coordinator to seek advice. Complaints can be made on either an individual or group basis.