ARTICLE 5
NO DISCRIMINATION OR HARASSMENT;
and AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
1. NO DISCRIMINATION, INTIMIDATION OR HARASSMENT
In order to achieve work relationships among employees, supervisors and managers at every level which are free of any form of discrimination, neither party shall discriminate against, intimidate, nor harass any employee because of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, sex, marital status, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, membership or non-membership in the VSEA, filing a complaint or grievance, or any other factor for which discrimination is prohibited by law. The provisions of this section prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation shall not be construed to change the definition of family or dependent in an employee benefit plan.
2. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAMS
It shall be a goal and an objective of the State to develop and implement positive and aggressive affirmative action programs to redress the effects of any discrimination and to prevent future discrimination in personnel actions which affect bargaining unit personnel. The VSEA shall furnish input in the development of such programs.
3. ENFORCEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
(a) The State will notify all state employees that any person who by action or condonation, subjects any other employee to harassment in the form of uninvited physical or verbal attention, insults or jokes based upon a factor for which discrimination is prohibited by law, or upon a person’s sexual orientation, or who invites or provokes such conduct, shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
(b) By the VSEA -
(1) The VSEA acknowledges its obligation to inform its members, officers, and agents of their obligations to abide by the laws, regulations and policies which prohibit discrimination, intimidation, or harassment.
(2) The VSEA further acknowledges its obligation to train its officers, agents and stewards to be sensitive to the requirements of this Article.