ASRM Anti-Harassment and NonDiscrimination Policy For Meetings

Statement of Policy

It is the policy of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine that all participants in Society activities will enjoy an environment free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.  ASRM is committed to the philosophy of equal opportunity and treatment for all members regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability, military status, or any other reason not related to scientific merit.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is deliberate or repeated behavior of a sexual nature that is unwelcome.  Examples can include verbal behavior such as unwanted sexual comments, suggestions, jokes or pressures for sexual favors; repeated unwanted requests for dates; non-verbal behavior such as suggestive looks or leering; physical behaviors such as pats or squeezes; discussion of sexual prowess or sexual activity; intrusive remarks or inquiries about an individual’s sex life, pregnancy or related conditions; and actions or remarks that demean an individual because of his or her sex.  Sexual harassment will not be tolerated.

Other Harassment

Harassment on the basis of any other protected characteristic is also strictly prohibited.  This conduct includes, but is not limited to the following:  epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping; threatening, intimidating, or hostile acts; denigrating jokes and display or circulation of written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual or group.

Discrimination

ASRM values and promotes diversity among its members, officers and staff.  The Society prohibits discrimination toward any member due to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability, military status or other reason not related to scientific merit.

Scope of Policy

This policy applies to all attendees at Society activities, including scientists, medical professionals, students, guests, staff, contractors, and exhibitors participating in the sessions, tours, and social events of any ASRM meeting or other activity.

Reporting an Incident

An individual covered by this policy who believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination should immediately contact the Society’s Chief Operations Office or Chief Executive Officer.  This can be accomplished on the annual meeting site by proceeding to the ASRM Office located in the Convention Center and advising ASRM staff that an audience is needed with the COO or CEO for a confidential matter that needs to be reported to them.    Incidents that need to be reported pre or post meeting can be handled by telephone via the ASRM office number published on the website or via e-mail directed to the COO of the CEO.    Incidents reported to the main ASRM e-mail address will be immediately forwarded to the appropriate party for handling.

The Investigation

All complaints under this policy will be treated seriously and will be investigated promptly.  Every effort will be made to ensure that complaints are resolved in a confidential manner, but confidentiality cannot be guaranteed at the expense of a thorough investigation.

Retaliation is Prohibited

Retaliation refers to taking some action to negatively impact another based on their reporting an act of discrimination or harassment.  ASRM will not tolerate any form of retaliation against persons who file a complaint or assist in the investigation.

Disciplinary Action

Individuals found to have engaged in behavior prohibited by this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.  Such actions range from a verbal warning to ejection from the meeting or activity without refund of registration fees and the reporting of the behavior to the violator’s employer.  Repeat offenders may be subject to further disciplinary action, such as being banned from participating in future ASRM meetings or activities.  The Board of Directors has the right to terminate the membership of any member.

Appeals & Questions

In the event that the individual who reported the incident is dissatisfied with the results of the investigation, he or she may appeal to the ASRM Judiciary Committee in writing.   Appeals will be handled in accordance with the procedures set forth in the ASRM Judiciary Policy and Procedure.    Any questions regarding this policy should be directed to the Chief Operations Officer.