The university is committed to resolving concerns informally whenever possible, but formal complaint procedures are available for those who wish to file a complaint of disability discrimination or a failure to provide reasonable accommodations. When a formal complaint is filed, the university ensures it is handled promptly and through the appropriate process, working to resolve concerns and provide remedies where necessary.
Formal ADA Grievance
Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) is responsible for reviewing complaints alleging harassment and discrimination based on a protected category. To discuss a concern or file a complaint regarding employment-related disability discrimination, or failure to provide reasonable accommodation, contact OPHD at ophd@ucmerced.edu or submit a report.
Additional Grievance Options for Employees
Faculty
- A grievance by a Senate faculty member alleges that a right or privilege of the grievant has been violated. Grievances are filed with the Committee on Privilege and Tenure of the Academic Senate (P&T). Discipline and grievances for non-senate faculty and other academic appointees are guided by their Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Staff
- Contact Employee and Labor Relations for more information regarding grievance options available to staff members.
Confidentiality
Information related to discrimination consultations and complaints is only shared on a business need-to-know basis. Confidentiality is maintained whenever possible with regard to consultations and complaints. However, complete confidentiality is not possible in cases where illegality or gross malfeasance are alleged.
Retaliation
Retaliation against persons who request reasonable employment accommodations, file complaints of discrimination, participate in an investigation of such a complaint, or oppose unlawful employment practices is prohibited by federal and state law and university policy. Employees and applicants for employment who believe they have been retaliated against are encouraged to report the retaliatory actions to OPHD.
External Grievance Options
Complaints may also be filed with the following state or federal agencies:
