Anti-Discrimination FAQs
I believe that I am being discriminated against on the basis of my membership in a Protected Class. Where can I go for guidance?
The University of Houston prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex (including gender and pregnancy), religion, national or ethnic origin, age (40+), disability, military status, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation (collectively referred to as "Protected Classes"). EOS is responsible for monitoring UH’s compliance with the UHS Anti-Discrimination Policy. Questions or concerns about alleged violations of the UHS Anti-Discrimination Policy should be directed to EOS.
Can I make an anonymous complaint or a complaint on someone else’s behalf?
Because the grievance procedures are focused on resolution, it is essential that EOS work directly with the person who is reported to have experienced discrimination and/or harassment on the basis of a Protected Class. EOS works directly with faculty, staff, and students who believe they have been discriminated against or harassed based on characteristics such as race, color, sex, gender, pregnancy, religion, national or ethnic origin, age (40+), disability, military status, genetic information, and sexual orientation.
Who is eligible to file a discrimination complaint?
University faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students can file a discrimination and/or harassment complaint.
Is everything I tell you kept confidential?
Your desire for confidentiality is respected to the extent allowed by state and federal law. It may be necessary to share information with other campus administrators on a need-to-know basis. Other administrators may help to fulfill your request for particular services (such as housing or academic changes) or to ensure the appropriate resolution of a report.
Which laws pertain to the UHS Anti-Discrimination Policy?
- Equal Pay Act of 1963
- Title VI & VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967
- Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
- Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972
- Section 503 & 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973
- Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974
- Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008
- Civil Rights Act of 1991
- Executive Order 11246
- Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008
Discriminatory practices under these laws also include the following.
- Harassment on the basis of a Protected Class;
- Retaliation against an individual for filing a charge of discrimination, participating in an investigation, or opposing discriminatory practices;
- Employment decisions based on stereotypes or assumptions about the abilities, traits, or performance of individuals of a Protected Class; and
- Denying employment opportunities to a person because of marriage to, or association with, an individual of a Protected Class. Title VII prohibits discrimination because of participation in schools or places of worship associated with a particular racial, ethnic, or religious group.
What do the EEO laws prohibit?
- EEO laws prohibit employment decisions based on any protected basis, including, but not limited to:
- hiring and firing;
- compensation, assignment, or classification of employees;
- transfer, promotion, layoff, or recall;
- job advertisements;
- recruitment;
- testing;
- use of company facilities;
- training and apprenticeship programs;
- fringe benefits;
- pay, retirement plans, and disability leave;
- retaliation for participation in a protected EEO activity; or
- any other term or condition of employment.
Where can I find information about academic accommodations for religious holy days?
- University of Houston (See "Religious Holy Days" and "Excused Absence Policy")
- Undergraduate Catalog on "Religious Holy Days"
- Graduate Catalog on "Religious Holy Days"
- University of Houston-Clear Lake (See "Missed Examinations and Assignments")
- Undergraduate Catalog on "Missed Examinations and Assignments"
- Graduate Catalog on "Missed Examinations and Assignments"
- University of Houston-Victoria (See "Absences due to Religious Holy Days")
- Academic Catalog on "Absences due to Religious Holy Days"
- University of Houston-Downtown
- Undergraduate Catalog (See "Religious Holy Days")
- Graduate Catalog (See "Religious Holy Days")
How can I make a report or file a complaint?
To make a report or to make an appointment to discuss the process for filing a formal complaint for an alleged violation of the UHS Anti-Discrimination Policy, please contact EOS.