Equal Opportunity
We enforce the University’s equal opportunity policies, facilitate the accommodation process for employees and applicants with disabilities, and serve as a neutral and independent investigatory unit for addressing complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Our Mission
Equal Opportunity advances a diverse, equitable, and supportive University culture through our commitment to fulfilling the spirit of equal opportunity laws and policies, as well as building awareness of UT Southwestern policies and recommended practices regarding equity and nondiscrimination within the University community.
To fulfill our mission, the Equal Opportunity team provides:
- Investigations
We provide:
- A mechanism for responding to, investigating, and resolving complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
- Oversight of and support for the University’s compliance efforts in the areas of equal opportunity, affirmative action, harassment and discrimination prevention, retaliation, and compliance with all applicable state and federal civil rights laws.
- University liaison with external agencies including the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), and the Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP).
- Consultation
We provide education for hiring managers and search committees regarding effective best practices to facilitate inclusive recruitment processes and to minimize the impact of implicit bias.
- Training
We provide information, consultation, training, and resources for the University community with regard to belonging, harassment and discrimination prevention, retaliation, affirmative action, equal opportunity, and disability matters.
Report Discrimination
In accordance with ETH-151: Equal Opportunity, the Equal Opportunity team serves as a neutral and independent investigatory unit for addressing complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation at UT Southwestern.
We are able to assist:
- Faculty
- Students/Learners
- Staff
- Visitors
- Applicants
Policies
Access University policies related to Equal Opportunity.
Guidance on Senate Bill 17
Senate Bill 17, which pertains to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education in Texas, was signed into law and took effect on January 1, 2024. On November 16, 2023, The University of Texas System approved UTS 197, titled "Compliance with State Law Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Institutions of Higher Education." UTS 197 ensures that each UT System institution maintains an environment that promotes learning, academic freedom, and the creation and transmission of knowledge free from any requirement to exhibit or reflect a specific ideology or political view. Furthermore, it prohibits granting advantages or disadvantages to individuals based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.
For any inquiries related to SB 17 compliance, UT Southwestern community members can reach out to the Office for Access & Title IX at 214.648.4343.
Request Training
Utilize training provided by Equal Opportunity Staff or online recommended resources.