By Victoria Ebner

In an effort to reduce hate-bias incidents across campus, the University approved a new system Sept. 16 where students can self-report these incidents online.

The University of Maryland has already received six hate-bias incident reports this academic year. The online self-reporting log itself reports that the most recent incident occurred on Monday and involved anti-LGBTQ rhetoric.

The University defines hate bias incidents as “acts characterized by some expression of hate or bias against a particular group,” ranging from offensive speech to violent harm, according to a document provided on the faculty website.

The program, along with other initiatives involving the Equity Center and the Nyumburu Center, was approved by President Loh on May 3. The online reporting system prompts students to enter their personal information, details of the incident, description of the other parties involved, and any supporting documentation including photo, email or video proof of the crime. Students can also report incidents anonymously.

Neijma Celeste-Donnor, program manager for Hate/Bias Response at the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, explains that the new online system will help expand the program’s reach as a resource.

“We live in an era where we need to make things accessible,” Celeste-Donnor said. “The online system is a way to make things more accessible.”

In addition, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion provides emotional support, where students can express their concerns in person if need be.

“People need a place to feel validated and have a place to speak,” administrative assistant Ebenezare Tadele said. “They need somewhere to work through those emotions.”

As for the future of the hate-bias program, Celeste-Donnor said the office is continuing to expand and refine the existing programs, including training sessions to educate students on these incidents. She also helps build partnerships with other student organizations on campus.