Anti-Discrimination Policy

The Nursing Organizations Alliance (NOA) has a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. 

We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors.

Definition of Discrimination: Discrimination refers to bias or prejudice resulting in denial of opportunity, or unfair treatment regarding selection, promotion, or transfer. Discrimination is practiced commonly on the grounds of age, disability, ethnicity, origin, political belief, race, religion, sex, etc. factors which are irrelevant to a person's competence or suitability.

Definition of Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. It refers to behavior that is not welcome, is personally offensive, debilitates morale and, therefore, interferes with work effectiveness.

Sexual harassment may include:

  • Unwelcome sexual advances
  • Requests for sexual favors
  • Sexual flirtations, advances, or propositions
  • Verbal comments or physical actions of a sexual nature
  • Sexually degrading words used to describe an individual
  • A display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures
  • Sexually explicit jokes
  • Unnecessary touching or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature 

Definition of Other Harassment: Harassment on the basis of any other protected characteristic is also strictly prohibited. This conduct may include, but is not limited, to the following:

  • Epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping
  • Threatening, intimidating or hostile acts
  • Display or circulation of written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual or group

Definition of Retaliation
Retaliation refers to taking some action to negatively impact another based on them reporting an act of discrimination or harassment.

Scope of Policy
This policy applies to all attendees at NOA activities, including attendees, guests, staff, vendors, and exhibitors, participating in the sessions, tours, and social events of any NOA meeting or other activity.

Behavior and language that are welcome/acceptable to one person may be unwelcome/offensive to another. Consequently, individuals must use discretion to ensure that their words and actions communicate respect for others. This is especially important for those in positions of authority since individuals with lower rank or status may be reluctant to express their objections or discomfort regarding unwelcome behavior.

Reporting Form
Please use this form if you have experienced of witnessed behavior in conflict with NOA's Anti-Discrimination policy as outlined above.