News
USQ Adopts Member Harassment Policy
USQ has adopted a harassment policy designed for advocacy, resource provision, and ongoing protection of members and volunteers.
The US Quidditch board of directors recently voted to ratify an unlawful harassment policy for the league. The policy defines sexual harassment and assault, as well as other kinds of harassing behavior, offers resources for survivors of assault or harassment, and outlines processes for making a report. USQ has also created internal policies for how to respond to reports, conduct investigations (if necessary), and take subsequent disciplinary action depending on findings. All reporting will be kept confidential and disciplinary decisions will only be communicated to the complainant and accused.
The policy has been developed by researching similar policies at organizations like US Lacrosse and USA Basketball, and with the input and approval of a law firm and sexual assault resource center. Additionally, USQ employees have been and will continue to undergo training from resource centers to ensure that they understand the best methods for handling reports and communicating with survivors.
The goal of this policy is be an advocate for survivors of harassment and assault (including offering resources and a channel to receive complaints), to provide ongoing preventative information and education, and to make our best efforts to prevent future and/or recurring instances of assault or harassment. USQ will always remind survivors that reporting an assault or harassment to the police is an option, and it should be noted that if the report involves a minor, USQ is legally obligated to inform law enforcement.
The unlawful harassment policy can be found here on the US Quidditch policies page.
Additionally, full copies or summaries of the policy have been added to the Member Code of Conduct and volunteer handbook.
Questions about the policy should be submitted to reports@usquidditch.org.
