hate/bias incident report form

What is a hate/bias incident?
Any non-criminal act motivated, in whole or in part, by the victim's actual or perceived race, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability.

How is a hate/bias incident different from a hate crime?
A hate crime is any criminal act or attempted criminal act, motivated, in whole or part, by the victim's actual or perceived race, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability.

For an act to qualify as a hate crime, two variables must be present: 1) A crime must take place; 2) That crime must be motivated by bias against characteristics included in federal, state and/or local statutes.

If you believe you have been the target or witness of a hate crime, call 911 immediately or contact our campus police at (608) 789-9999.

What is the purpose of this form?
The purpose of this confidential reporting form is to monitor the occurrence of hate/bias incidents both on and off campus. The identity of the victim/target will be kept confidential. Submitting this form may or may not result in criminal or university action, depending on the type of incident and the victim’s willingness to take further action.

Why does UW-L monitor hate incidents?
UW-L views hate/bias incidents and all manifestations of prejudice or intolerance as antithetical to our mission as a university and a community, and as a threat to each individual's right to a safe learning and working environment. Therefore, all such incidents have to be addressed appropriately, which depends on the nature of the incident, the people involved, the location of the incident. Submitting this form will help us better understand our campus climate and help create an environment where everyone feels welcome.

Who should complete this form?
Anyone who has experienced, witnessed, or learned of a hate/bias incident should complete this form. You may fill out as much or as little information as you choose, but in order for the University to respond most effectively, it is important to include as much information as possible. Please include your name if you wish to be contacted. If you are under 18 years of age and do not want to make an official police report, do not include your name on this form.

What other resources are available?
You may also contact The Office of Student Life (785-8062) or the Campus Police (789-9000) directly for help. If the incident occurred off campus, you may contact the Office of Student Life (785-8062) or City of La Crosse Police Department (785-5962). In case of emergency, or if someone's physical safety is at risk, please call the police immediately and fill out this form later.