Brown has implemented a series of structural and procedural enhancements to better prevent and address discrimination and harassment across our campus. These actions strengthen the University’s compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin — including shared ancestry and ethnic characteristics — by institutions that receive federal funding.

These efforts reflect the University’s proactive and ongoing commitment to equity, safety, and institutional accountability.

To strengthen Brown’s response to discrimination and harassment—and to proactively educate our community about behavioral expectations, rights, and responsibilities—the University has implemented the following actions:

• Established the Office of Equity Compliance and Reporting (OECR) to centralize oversight of discrimination and harassment response and support under the Division of Campus Life.
• Strengthened efforts to promote diversity and inclusion under the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI).
• Clarified reporting procedures and investigation pathways, with clear links to federal statutes and processes for resolving complaints under Brown’s Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy. 
• Updated and published the Discrimination and Harassment Standard Operating Procedure for Addressing and Responding to Reports and Complaints, improving transparency in how reports are reviewed and resolved.
• Improved access to reporting tools and support resources, including:
  • A simplified, centralized Discrimination and Harassment Reporting Form.
  • Prominent promotion of Brown’s Anonymous Reporting Hotline.
  • Streamlined guidance on where and how to seek support for individuals experiencing harassment and discrimination.
• Clarified the roles of key offices—including the Office of Equity Compliance and Reporting (OECR), the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), University Human Resources, and the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards—in addressing discrimination and harassment across contexts.
• Expanded training and community education, including new programs aligned with current Title VI guidance and best practices in higher education.

Brown University is deeply committed to ensuring a campus climate free from discrimination and harassment. As part of our enhanced institutional response, we offer a comprehensive array of training aligned with federal regulations, including Title VI and Title IX, as well as diverse educational programs and opportunities.

These efforts are designed to support compliance, promote equity, and equip our students, faculty and staff with the knowledge and tools to uphold our community values.

Required and Recommended Trainings

The Division of Campus Life and the Office of Equity Compliance and Reporting (OECR) deliver educational programming on discrimination and harassment to the University community. Programs include:

• Title VI Training: Reflecting current federal guidance, this training introduces Brown’s Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy and Protest and Demonstration Policy. Participants learn how to recognize prohibited conduct, understand their rights and responsibilities, report concerns, and access support resources. [Mandatory Training]
• Title IX Training: Focused on sex- and gender-based discrimination and harassment, including sexual misconduct. These sessions are regularly delivered to student leaders, faculty, and staff. [Title IX Training]
• Student Orientation Programs: All incoming undergraduate students participate in educational programming on equity, inclusion, and respectful engagement as part of New Student Orientation. [Orientation]
• Tailored Departmental Trainings: Customized workshops are provided for specific populations, including administrative units, faculty in academic departments, medical students, and other student groups. [Contact OECR]

These programs and actions are an integral part of Brown’s university-wide strategy to prevent and address discrimination and harassment, and to promote a safe, inclusive environment in alignment with our legal and ethical obligations.