Rockland Community College is a broadly diversified institution, committed to recognizing the diversity of values and beliefs on campus. The College condemns bias and all other acts of hatred and violence. Furthermore, the College condemns all forms of bigotry, discrimination, harassment, physical and verbal abuse.

Rockland Community College, a unit of the State University of New York, adheres to federal and state laws and regulations and State University of New York policies that prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, national origin, disability and sexual orientation. Various procedures are in place for the expeditious review and effective resolution of allegations of prohibited behavior.

In a college, ideas are constantly introduced, examined and evaluated. The expression of ideas constitutes the daily environment of a learning community. Some of them are contradictory and some are repugnant, but, it is hoped, all are intellectually stimulating and respected. It is appropriate, therefore, to reaffirm the College’s dedication to both freedom of discourse and freedom from unlawful discrimination and to declare that these are not contradictory values but complementary rights. Ideas, values and lifestyles should be freely and openly discussed, allowing an opportunity for all sides to be heard and considered. At the same time, the safety of persons and property must be upheld, since there can be no free discourse in an atmosphere of intimidation.

Rockland Community College gives recognition to Constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression, including the right to express views, opinions and beliefs that some may find offensive. While not tolerating hostile, intimidating or abusive language, the College will make every effort to promote free speech in accord with appropriate statutes and judicial precedents. Clearly the College will not condone language that incites individuals to illegal and/or violent acts or causes physical or verbal abuse toward any member of the College community. More importantly, this institution expects members of the College community to contribute to creating an environment of mutual respect and tolerance for individual differences.

Policies and Procedures

The College’s equal employment opportunity and affirmative action, and sexual harassment policies are available for review (see links below).

• Equity & Compliance Policy Manual
• Acknowledgment of Receipt of Policy – Form A (PDF)
• Complaint of discrimination, harassment or retaliation – Form B (PDF)
• Notice of withdrawal of a complaint – Form C (PDF)
• Notice of a complaint resolution – Form D (PDF)
• Request for reasonable accommodation – Form E (PDF)

All members of the College community, including faculty, staff and students, are expected to follow the applicable policies and to cooperate with the procedures for responding to discrimination complaints.

All employees and students are protected from retaliation for filing a complaint or assisting in an investigation under the College’s policies and procedures.