Sent to All Faculty & Staff - January 22, 2024
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Equity & Access BulletinOffice of Equity & Access |
Disabled? Self Identify!
Prior Disability? Never Disabled? Self Identify!
We would like to invite everyone to self-identify their disability status.
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering an equitable and accessible workplace we are reaching out to all employees with an important initiative that requires everyone's participation - the Voluntary Self-Identification of a Disability Form.
We Need All Employees to Self Identify
We understand that disability can take various forms, and individuals may have different experiences. The participation of all employees, regardless of their disability status, is crucial in helping us create an environment that supports all employees, regardless of their abilities.
Confidential & Voluntary
Employee privacy is of utmost importance to us. This form is voluntary, and your responses are confidential. It will not impact your employment status or opportunities in any way. It will not be shared with your department or your managers.
The information collected will only be used to measure how well we are doing providing equal opportunity to people with disabilities, and to implement programs and accommodations, in accordance with applicable laws.
Once again, to participate, log into Solar to access the secure self-identification form and check one of the three boxes shown above. If you prefer not to disclose your disability status, you can simply select the option indicating that you Don't Wish To Answer. You can log back into Solar and update your status at any time.
Help Keep Our Campus Accessible for All
Help Keep Our Campus Accessible for All
We can all be in a rush sometimes, but we still must be mindful that our actions don't create accessibility barriers for others. Here are some helpful reminders:
Disabled Parking is by Permit Only
Disabled Parking spaces should ONLY be used by individuals with Disabled Parking permits. All the time. Even if you are just unloading something heavy. Even if someone is still sitting in the car. Even if you are only going to be a minute. Parking in Disabled Parking limits accessibility for members of our University campus who need it and is a violation of University parking policy.
Keep Accessible Pathways ClearDisability access buttons are available throughout campus, sometimes posted on railings or posts. Bicycle racks are also available throughout campus. The railings and posts supporting disability access buttons are not bike racks. Chaining your bike to the railing or post for a disability button can make the button itself, or the pathway, or both unsafe to your fellow University community members who who use wheelchairs or other accessibility devices. |
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Important Reminder on Reporting Discrimination, Including Sexual Misconduct
As we embark on this new semester, The Office of Equity and Access (OEA) would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the importance of reporting incidents of discrimination, including sexual misconduct or violence, and discriminatory harassment, that you may witness or experience. OEA takes all reported matters seriously, and we are committed to ensuring support and resources are available to those who need it.
If you or someone you know has experienced any form of discrimination, including sexual misconduct, discriminatory harassment or sexual violence, please report it promptly. OEA is here to help, and a safe and non-discriminatory university community is our top priority.
Any incident can be reported on OEA's ReportIt webpage or via reportit@stonybrook.edu. On OEA the Reportit webpage you can also find links to additional resources and information, including our Sexual Misconduct and Title IX website.
Your voice matters. By reporting, you contribute to creating a safer and more equitable campus for everyone. We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to making our university community a place where everyone feels respected and valued.
Wishing you a successful semester ahead!
Planning An Event? OEA Can Help.
Public Accommodation Accessibility Reminder
Compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
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As the upcoming semester is fast approaching, we would like to remind everyone responsible for planning events and programs that all public events hosted by departments, student clubs, or offices at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook Medicine, and the Long Island State Veterans Home (LISVH) are subject to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that these events must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. |
What does this mean for your upcoming event?
All events must be accessible and accessibility is the responsibility of the host of the event. This includes:
Physical Accessibility
The venue must be accessible to individuals with mobility impairments, Facilities should have ramps, accessible restrooms, and clear pathways.
Accessible Communication
Materials, both presented and distributed, must be accessible to all participants or provided in alternative formats for individuals with disabilities. Alternative formats may include: large print documents, electronic documents, audio descriptions, and sign language interpreting.
Accommodation Requests
Information to allow potential participants to notify you of a need for an accommodation must be provided in your invitation and/or promotional materials. Requests may include providing services such as assistive technology or sign language interpreting.
Contact person
To be best prepared to address accommodation requests as needed, a contact person must be designated. It should be included in your invitation or promotional materials and be readily available to the public..
Need assistance?
The Office of Equity and Access (OEA) is happy to assist you with making your public event accessible. We can provide resources, guidance, and support in the following areas:
Identifying potential accessibility barriers
Developing accessibility plans
Addressing accommodation requests
Resources:
Creating Accessible Meetings and Events | SBU OEA