By Andre Anderson 

Writer/Reporter 

Metro State University served as the host site for the Annual Bias Incident Response Team Summit on May 21, bringing together more than one hundred faculty, staff, and administrators from across Minnesota State for a full day of training and shared practice. The summit, organized by the Minnesota State Office of Equity & Inclusion, focused on strengthening how campuses understand, respond to, and support community members affected by bias incidents. Sessions throughout the day covered the scope of BIRT work, the values that guide bias response, the difference between implicit and unconscious bias, and the facilities, safety, and legal considerations that shape institutional protocols. A closing panel highlighted lessons learned and emerging practices from across the system. 

While the summit was designed for campus professionals, its purpose connects directly to students. Metro State emphasizes that bias incidents undermine learning, belonging, and community safety, and that students should know where to turn if they experience or witness something concerning. A bias incident is defined as an act of bigotry, harassment, or intimidation motivated in whole or in part by bias toward someone’s actual or perceived identity. These incidents may be intentional or unintentional, but they can still cause harm and disrupt the campus environment. 

Metro State’s Bias Advisory Team exists to support individuals through what can be a difficult and confusing process. Students, faculty, staff, administrators, visitors, or community members may report a possible bias incident. Reports can be made directly to any member of the Bias Advisory Team, and individuals may choose to identify themselves or submit a report anonymously. The team reviews all reports, discusses them at weekly meetings, and determines the appropriate next steps. Depending on the nature of the incident, the team may connect affected individuals with campus resources, consult with relevant offices, coordinate community outreach, or recommend educational programming. In some cases, the team may advise individuals on how to initiate a formal investigation through the appropriate university office, though the Bias Advisory Team itself is not an investigative body. 

Students who are unsure about whether to report an incident can speak with any member of the team to learn more about their options. After a report is submitted, the team may follow up for additional details if contact information is provided. Anonymous reports are also accepted and contribute to the university’s understanding of the types of incidents occurring on campus. The information gathered helps Metro State identify patterns, develop prevention strategies, and strengthen educational efforts. 

The purpose of reporting bias incidents is not only to address individual concerns, but also to support the broader campus community. The Bias Advisory Team aims to promote an inclusive environment by providing a centralized, streamlined process for reporting and responding to incidents of bias. The team’s work includes supporting those who have been targeted or affected, referring individuals to ongoing resources, and informing the campus community about the frequency and nature of reported incidents. Institutional responses may include removing graffiti, offering counseling or support, providing feedback to departments, or communicating with the campus community when appropriate. 

Students who want to report a bias incident or learn more about the process can visit Metro State’s Bias Advisory Team webpage at www.metrostate.edu/about/diversity/bias-advisory-team   

Those who prefer to talk through the process or ask questions directly can schedule a Zoom or in person meeting by emailing biasresponse@metrostate.edu. 

By hosting the statewide summit and continuing to expand awareness of the Bias Advisory Team, Metro State reaffirms its commitment to fostering a campus where all students feel seen, valued, and supported, and where incidents of bias are addressed with seriousness, transparency, and care.