Harassment and Nondiscrimination Policy

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

ArchaeoPlus (A+) is dedicated to fostering a learning and working environment characterized by dignity and respect for all individuals. Acts of harassment, coercion, or disruption constitute forms of misconduct that undermine the effectiveness of A+ programs and have adverse effects on individuals subjected to such behavior. A+ expects all individuals involved in field schools, including field school directors, affiliated faculty, staff, volunteers, students, and visitors, to maintain professional relationships, refraining from and discouraging any form of harassment.

Sexual harassment, as with other types of discrimination and harassment, is strictly prohibited within A+ field schools and programs.

DEFINITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It occurs when submission to or rejection of such conduct explicitly or implicitly affects a person's employment or education, unreasonably interferes with work or educational performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment.

Acts of harassment not explicitly sexual but based on gender, sex-stereotyping, or sexual orientation are also prohibited under A+'s non-discrimination policy. Such acts may contribute to the creation of a hostile work or academic environment. A+ considers acts of discrimination based on gender, sex-stereotyping, or sexual orientation when determining the existence of a hostile environment due to sexual harassment.

SEXUAL AND GENDER HARASSMENT OUTSIDE THE USA

Recognition of sexual harassment abroad must consider cultural norms within the field school location. A+ acknowledges the diversity of its field school locations, where cultural norms, environmental conditions, and logistical constraints may differ, creating situations that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Participants are urged to be culturally aware, educated about local norms, and mindful of personal boundaries. While cultural sensitivity is encouraged, participants should not compromise their personal boundaries and are expected to adhere to local laws and regulations. A+ anticipates all participants to contribute to creating an inclusive and safe learning and working environment.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT REPORTING

A+ is committed to responding to reports of sexual harassment to prevent such conduct. In evaluating reported conduct, A+ considers the overall record and circumstances, including the context of the conduct.

ANTI-RETALIATION POLICY

ArchaeoPlus strictly prohibits retaliation against any field school participant—student or staff member—who, in good faith, makes a complaint, raises a concern, provides information, or assists in an investigation regarding conduct believed to violate the Student Code of Conduct, other Institute for Field Research policies, or applicable laws, rules, or regulations.

The policy is designed to ensure that all field school participants feel comfortable reporting illegal or unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. It encourages cooperation with A+ in internal investigations by providing honest, truthful, and complete information.

No field school participant should face adverse consequences as a result of making a good-faith complaint or participating in an investigation, irrespective of the outcome. Participants are, however, expected to adhere to the same standards of performance and conduct as others, and intentional false reports may lead to disciplinary action.

ArchaeoPlus takes all complaints of retaliation seriously, reviewing and investigating them promptly where appropriate.

REPORTING AN INCIDENT OF HARASSMENT

A+ encourages participants to report perceived incidents of harassment, regardless of the offender's identity or position. Participants who believe they have been victims of such conduct are encouraged, if possible, to advise the offender that the behavior is unwelcome. If uncomfortable addressing the offender directly or if the conduct persists, participants should report their concerns to the field director or another faculty member. If uncomfortable addressing the conduct directly or reporting it to the field director or faculty, or if a previous report has not been resolved satisfactorily, participants should make a report directly to A+ administration.

INTENTIONAL FALSE REPORTS

Reports of sexual harassment may not always be substantiated by additional evidence, given the often private nature of such interactions. Lack of corroborating evidence should not discourage individuals from reporting, but intentional false reports may result in disciplinary action and are not protected from third-party legal action.

OPTIONS FOR RESOLUTION

A+ responds to all reports of harassment, including anonymous or third-party reports. Appropriate actions will be taken based on the report, and many cases can be resolved at an early stage. In cases where early resolution is inappropriate or unsuccessful, A+ may conduct an investigation, taking necessary or prudent actions at its sole discretion, including participant removal from a field school and notification of authorities.