Discrimination and Harassment

51ÂÜÀò is committed to the biblical truth that all persons are created in the image of God and should, therefore, be treated with dignity and respect. 51ÂÜÀò seeks to emphasize the importance of being an authentically diverse community in pursuit of growth, awareness, and appreciation of our own diversity as well as that which exists in the broader world.

As such, except to the extent inconsistent with its Theological Positions (see below) and other published policies based on its religious beliefs, 51ÂÜÀò does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, disability, marital status, or military or veteran status in the administration of its educational policies, admissions, financial aid, employment, educational programs, or activities. Likewise, 51ÂÜÀò does not tolerate discrimination or harassment by its employees or students based on these protected classes. 51ÂÜÀò’s Discrimination and Harassment Policy describes, among other things, the conduct that is prohibited, reporting options and the process to be followed in the event a potential violation of the policy has occurred.

While 51ÂÜÀò opposes discrimination, harassment and retaliation as stated in its Discrimination and Harassment Policy, it is exempt from certain state and federal anti-discrimination laws due to its status as a religious non-profit corporation and its constitutional right to act in accordance with its religious beliefs. Nothing herein is intended, nor should it be construed to constitute a waiver of those exemptions or legal defenses, or of 51ÂÜÀò’s right to make and enforce policies in furtherance of its religious beliefs.

As such, as a religious institution, 51ÂÜÀò exercises its right to make and implement policies and admit and discipline students on the basis of its theological positions, including but not limited to its Statement of Biblical Principles and its position on Sexuality, Gender & Relationships.