investigation, we will, to the extent appropriate inform the person filing the complaint and the person alleged to have committed the conduct of the results of that investigation.
If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, we will act promptly to eliminate the offending conduct, and where appropriate we will also impose disciplinary action.
Given the sensitive nature of complaints of discrimination and/or harassment, all parties and witnesses in a complaint, as well as supervisors, etc. who are aware of a complaint or investigation thereof, are strongly encouraged to maintain this information as confidential, so as not to negatively impact an investigation.
VI. Complaints concerning other forms of discrimination and/or harassment
Complaints alleging forms of discrimination and/or harassment, other than sexual harassment, will be processed in accordance with Sections IV and V, above.
VII. Retaliation
Any retaliation against an individual who has formally or informally complained about discrimination (including harassment), or has cooperated with an investigation of a discrimination complaint, is prohibited.
Retaliation can be overt or subtle. Retaliation may include, but is not limited to, treating a complainant or witness differently, more harshly or in a hostile manner; physical interference with movement such as blocking a path; derogatory comments or action which would tend to have a chilling effect on other complainants; sudden investigations of the complainant's private life, or; sudden strict enforcement of work rules. Retaliation in any form will not be tolerated.
VIII. Disciplinary action
If it is determined that discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or other inappropriate conduct has been committed by one of our employees, the Employer will take such action as is appropriate under the circumstances. Such actions may include: counseling, informal or formal reprimands, written or verbal warnings, suspension, reduction in pay, reduction in duties, transfers, and other formal sanctions, up to and including termination of employment.
IX. State and federal remedies
In addition to the above, if you believe you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination and/or harassment, you may file a formal complaint with either or both of the government agencies set forth below. Using our complaint process does not prohibit you from filing a complaint with these agencies. Each of the agencies has a short time period for filing a claim (EEOC - 300 days; MCAD - 300 days).