Hate Crimes

Hate crimes are not separate, distinct crimes, but rather traditional criminal offenses under federal or state law that are motivated in whole or in part by the offender's bias toward the victim's race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, gender or ethnicity. Because there is always an "underlying" criminal offense involved in a hate crime, the perpetrator is subject to criminal prosecution. It can be difficult to ascertain an offender's subjective motivation, so characterizing a criminal act as a hate crime may sometimes require a detailed investigation to uncover objective facts to lead a reasonable and prudent person to conclude that the offender's actions were motivated by bias. Hate crimes may include threatened, attempted, or actual crimes; and may include assault and battery, vandalism, or other destruction of property, or verbal threats of physical harm. Harassment or intimidation may also be a hate crime when used to deprive or interfere with a person's exercise of civil rights.

Bias-Related Incident

This protocol uses the term "bias-related incident" to refer to behavior that, whether or not criminal, constitutes a violation of behavioral standards and policies listed in the Student Guide and Professional Standards of Boston College, and that is motivated in whole or in part by the offender's bias toward the victim's race, ethnic or national origin, religion, color, age, gender, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disabilities.

The information you give by reporting a hate crime or bias-related incident you may witness will:

• Help bring the perpetrator to justice—this could prevent further occurrences and protect other BC community members;
• Help you—you may find it beneficial to talk about what has happened and your feelings about it; 
• Help the BC community—all such offenses have a negative effect on our community and should be pursued actively.

Incidents reported on this form will be recorded by the database maintained by the Associate Vice President for Human Resources. Reports will be kept confidential to the extent possible unless it requires judicial or administrative action.

An individual who experiences or witnesses a bias incident should report immediately to allow for timely investigation and support. Hate crimes should be reported immediately to BCPD.

For Faculty and Staff Related Matters

Reported incidents will be recorded in a database maintained by the Office of the Vice President for Human Resources. Reports will be kept confidential to the extent possible unless it requires judicial or administrative action. The purpose of the database is to tally incidents and track details related to them. 

Once the initial report of an incident is made, the Associate Vice President for Human Resources will review and determine next steps. Next steps may include investigation by the appropriate parties or additional measures to address the issue(s) of concern. Depending on the type of incident the appropriate parties may include BCPD, Office for Student Conduct, Provost/Vice Provost, Deans/Department Chairs and/or the Vice President for Human Resources.

For Student Related Matters

The Office of the Dean of Students cultivates a welcoming and supportive environment where bias-motivated conduct is not tolerated. Students should be aware of the expectations that come with being a member of the BC community, how to report bias-motivated incidents, and how to connect with offices providing support. 

Communication to the broader community regarding hate crimes or bias incidents is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may be issued when the appropriate authorities determine there is an immediate danger to the Boston College community. In such instances, the University provides timely updates and safety information to ensure the well-being of all campus members. Additionally, in compliance with federal law, Boston College publishes an annual Clery Report which details campus crime statistics and safety policies. 

Campus Safety

Boston College is committed to the policies, principles, and practices of equal opportunity, and nondiscrimination in all of its activities, including, but not limited to employment. Boston College commits itself to maintaining a welcoming environment for all people and extends its welcome in particular to those who may be vulnerable to discrimination, on the basis of their race, ethnic or national origin, religion, color, age, gender, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disabilities.

Boston College Policies