Sexual harassment is defined as: unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada complies with all British Columbia provincial laws and regulations regarding sexual harassment and sexual assault. Goh Ballet Academy's Policy is in place to ensure that all of our students, families, faculty are respected and receive fair treatment.
Offences can include:
- Conduct that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
- Conduct that interferes with a person’s performance and submission to such conduct is made a condition of a person’s advancement.
- Actions in which a person’s reaction to such conduct is used for decisions affecting that person.
Purpose and Scope
This policy aims to ensure that Goh Ballet Academy is a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all. We are committed to preventing and addressing sexual misconduct, providing support to those affected, and ensuring appropriate responses are implemented.
Sexual misconduct refers to any unwelcome sexual behaviour, including but not limited to sexual harassment, assault, or coercion, that may occur within the context of our Goh Ballet Academys' programs or activities.
- Sexual Misconduct Definition includes the following:
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- Sexual Assualt
- Sexual Exploitation
- Sexual Harrassment
- Stalking
- Indecent Exposure
- Voyeurism
- The distribution of a sexually explicit photograph or video of a person to one or more persons other than the person in the photograph or video without the consent of the person in the photograph or video and with the intent to distress the person in the photograph or video
- The attempt to commit an act of sexual misconduct
- The threat to commit an act of sexual misconduct
Prevention of Sexual Misconduct
- Goh Ballet Academy is committed to taking steps to prevent sexual misconduct, including:
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- Providing education and training to all students, faculty, and staff on sexual misconduct awareness, prevention, and reporting.
- Promoting a culture of respect and dignity within the Academy.
- Ensuring that all students, faculty, and staff are aware of their rights and responsibilities.
Reporting and Complaints Procedures
- Making a Complaint of Sexual Misconduct Involving a Student
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- Students who experience and or observe sexual misconduct are encouraged and urged to report the incident to the Director, senior management and or faculty on a timely manner - to ensure incidents are being addressed and investigated. Complaints will be handled in a confidential and respectful manner to senior management.
- Making a Report of Sexual Misconduct Involving a Student
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- Anyone (Not limited to, and including faculty, staff, or other students) who becomes aware of an incident of sexual misconduct involving a student is encouraged to report the matter to the Director, and or senior management even if the victim does not wish to file a formal complaint.
- Responding to a Complaint of Sexual Misconduct Involving a Student
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- Upon receipt of a complaint, Goh Ballet Academy will take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the complainant, including providing support services, interim measures (such as changes to class schedules or housing arrangements), and an opportunity for the complainant to seek counseling or other services.
- Goh Ballet Academy will then:
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- Acknowledge receipt of the complaint.
- Conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations.
- Ensure confidentiality and protect the privacy of all parties involved as much as possible.
- Provide timely updates to the complainant throughout the process.
Responding to a Report of Sexual Misconduct Involving a Student
When a report is made, Goh Ballet Academy will take immediate action to address the situation. This may include offering support services to the student(s) involved, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected, and launching an investigation to determine the facts.
In some cases, Goh Ballet Academy may also be required to report the incident to external authorities such as law enforcement, depending on the severity of the misconduct and legal requirements.
Investigation Procedures
All complaints and reports of sexual misconduct will be investigated promptly, impartially, and confidentially. Investigations will be handled by trained individuals with expertise in sexual misconduct matters. The complainant and respondent will have the opportunity to participate in the investigation and provide relevant information.
Support and Resources for Students
- Goh Ballet offers the following support services to students who experience sexual misconduct:
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- Access and or referral to counselling and psychological support services.
- Access and or referral to external agencies for specialized support and advocacy.
- Access and or referral for information on legal rights and options for reporting to law enforcement if desired.
Disciplinary Measures
Students found to have violated the sexual misconduct policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion. Any individual who retaliates against a complainant or participates in the misconduct will also face disciplinary consequences.
Awareness and Communication
The Sexual Misconduct Policy will be provided to all students before the start of their program. This ensures that all students are aware of their rights, the process for making a complaint, and the available resources for support.
Goh Ballet Academy will also provide ongoing education and training regarding sexual misconduct prevention and response to all students, staff, and faculty.
Review of the Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws. Any necessary changes will be made to enhance the policy and ensure that Goh Ballet Academy continues to provide a safe and respectful environment for all.