BIRST (Bias Incident Response Support Team)

Notice:  The Bias Incident Response/Support Team is currently undergoing revisions to better serve our campus community.  To report a bias-motivated incident please contact Dennis Coy Denman, Director of  Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Community, at:

Email: dennis.denman@seattlecolleges.edu

The Bias Incident Response/Support Team (BIRST) addresses campus climate and advocacy for persons affected by bias motivated incidents at South Seattle Community College. BIRST consists of a team of campus employees who are standing members or appointed by campus employees and trained in identifying, addressing, and documenting incidences of bias on campus. In cases where an offender can be identified, there are existing campus procedures to follow; however, instances in which the offender is unknown, the BIRST acts as the primary point of contact and advocate. BIRST works closely with other campus departments to ensure the appropriate documentation and reporting of all bias incidences.

Role of the Bias Incident Response/Support Team

• Making every effort to contact person affected within 24 hours and, while respecting whatever decision they have made, encourage them to pursue some type of assistance.
• Providing advice on the college's discrimination complaint procedures, and academic assistance.
• Providing advocacy for the person affected in other proceedings.
• Providing appropriate counseling referral to the person affected.
• Providing appropriate medical referral.