Title VI

The University of Wyoming (UW) is a recipient of federal assistance and must be in compliance with Title VI. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin.  No person at UW shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Discrimination:

Prohibited discrimination is treating someone differently because of their race, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, and status as a parent in any program or activity at UW. The Equal Opportunity Report and Response Unit examines whether there was an adverse impact on the individual’s work or education environment and whether individuals outside of the protected class received more favorable treatment. If there was an adverse impact on the individual’s work or education environment, the Equal Opportunity Report and Response Unit considers whether there is a legitimate, nondiscriminatory reason for the action.

Non-discrimination:

General bullying or uncivil behavior that is not based on a protected class does not fall within the purview of the Title VI. However, such behavior may violate the University’s expectations on civility and mutual respect as outlined in the staff and student handbooks as well as University policies.

UW Policies that apply to Title VI:

• UW Regulation 4-1: Equal Education and Employment Opportunity
• UW Regulation 4-2: Discrimination and Harassment
• Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination
• Limited English Proficiency Plan SAPP

Office of Civil Rights (OCR) Title VI Dear Colleague Letter - February 14, 2025

OCR Dear Colleague Letter issued on February 14, 2025

Office of General Counsel OCR Title VI Dear Colleague Letter Presentation - February 26, 2025

This presentation for UW community members focuses on the Feb. 14 Dear Colleague Letter issued by the Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The letter clarifies OCR’s position that federal law prohibits covered entities from using race, color, or national origin in decisions pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, and all other aspects of student, academic, and campus life. Universities have until Feb. 28 to comply with the letter. 

OCR Frequently Asked Questions Following the Dear Colleague Letter - February 14, 2025 

The Office of Civil Rights compiled a list of frequently asked questions for reference by anyone with additional questions following the Dear Colleague Letter Released on February 14, 2025. 

Individuals with questions about the Dear Colleague Letter or the presentation by the Office of General Counsel can contact Equal Opportunity Report and Response (EORR) with questions at 307-766-5200 or report-it@uwyo.edu. 

Reporting:

Reporting Obligations Discrimination with the exception of confidential resources, all University employees (including student employees) with teaching or supervisory authority and graduate students with teaching or supervisory authority are obligated to promptly report to the Equal Opportunity Report and Response office any incidents of discrimination of which they become aware in the scope of their work for the University. The University encourages all individuals—including students not referenced above and staff without supervisory authority—to report discrimination.

 

Title  IX & VI Coordinator