Harvard University adds caste to its non-discriminatory policy

NEW DELHI: Harvard University has added a new provision to its non-discrimination policy that explicitly prohibits caste oppression. Along with caste discrimination, the university is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, race, colour national origin, sex (including gender identity and gender expression, as well as pregnancy), genetic information, ancestry, religion, caste, creed, veteran status, disability, military service, sexual orientation and political beliefs.

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As per Harvard University, the procedures specified in this non-discrimination policy apply to internal complaints submitted by individual members of the community. However, it does not create any contractual, legal, or another right for any individual, nor does it impose any contractual or legal obligation on the institution.

Another milestone achieved.@Harvard University has added #caste to its non-discrimination policy.

Our congratulations and sincere thanks to the students and faculty, whose dedicated efforts led to this great accomplishment.

The Domino Effect is in play.#BanCasteInUSA pic.twitter.com/TtHPDb4aFi

— Ambedkar International Center (AIC) (@ambedkar_center) March 23, 2023

The policy also does not affect the power of the university to manage behaviour that it finds is inconsistent with its expectations, rules, standards or values.

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"Claims of discrimination on the basis of sex that fall under Harvard's Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy, Other Sexual Misconduct Policy, and Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment Policy should be pursued under those policies and their accompanying procedures, Claims of discrimination on the basis of disability or failure to accommodate a disability are addressed through the University Disability Resources Grievance Policy", the official statement said.

An individual can violate this policy in addition to other relevant policies of the university, but a complainant may not pursue a complaint under this based on behaviour or conduct that has already been investigated and resolved under other university policies.

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The official statement further added, "University policy prohibits retaliation for asserting one's rights to a work or educational setting free of discrimination on the bases specified by this policy. Moreover, retaliation against an individual for cooperating in an investigation of such a complaint, or for opposing prohibited practices, is prohibited".