Microaggressions— Microaggressions refers to obvious or subtle, direct or indirect behaviors and comments which reference an individual’s personal identity, such as their race, gender, ethnic origin, religion, or age. Over time, microaggressions can have lasting emotional and mental effects on the individual or individuals targeted and can contribute to a toxic and non-inclusive workplace. Examples of microaggressions in the workplace can include, but are not limited to:

• • calling a woman “bossy”

  • telling female managers how to perform their duties

  • repeatedly calling a racialized employee by the name of a different person of the same race

  • asking a racialized employee where they are “really” from

  • commenting on a person’s physical appearance in reference to racial characteristics such as skin tone 

  • scheduling meetings or important deadlines on religious or cultural holidays

All employees are responsible for conducting themselves in a professional and inclusive manner, and disciplinary action will be taken in situations where an employee’s behavior violates this expectation. Employees who are found to be in violation of the Zero Tolerance Policy may face a variety of disciplinary actions, up to and including immediate termination. Disciplinary action may be recommended by an independent investigator and will be determined by senior leadership.