Article VIII
Nondiscrimination

Wayne State University and the Association recognize not only a legal obligation to members of the bargaining unit, but also a moral and educational responsibility to achieve equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination within the University—both for the sake of fair employment practices and for the sake of meeting its educational objectives. Accordingly, it is agreed that the University, the Association, and members of the bargaining unit shall engage in no discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, political beliefs, political activities, national origin, marital status, age, gender, sexual orientation, or physical handicap of those capable of performing their professional duties.

Discrimination resulting from sexual harassment as defined by the Board of Governors' statute of July 15, 1983, shall be subject to the grievance procedure. Such a grievance may be filed only after remedies under the Board of Governors' statute have been exhausted.

To provide equal treatment with regard to sexual orientation, the University Administration and the Association recognize the status of domestic partners. A domestic partnership is defined as two individuals of the same gender who live together in a long-term relationship of indefinite duration, with an exclusive mutual commitment in which the partners agree to be jointly responsible for each other's common welfare and share financial obligations. The partners may not be related by blood to a degree that would prohibit legal marriage in the state in which they legally reside.

There shall be no retaliation or discrimination against members of the bargaining unit for the exercise of their rights under this Agreement.

AAUP-AFT, Local 6075 - 5057 Woodward Avenue - Suite 3301 - Detroit, Michigan 48202-4050 - Phone: (313) 577-1750 / Fax: (313) 577-8159