Every member of the NAO community has the right to study, work and conduct his or her activities in an environment free of discrimination and harassment, and supportive of academic achievement, dignity, and self esteem. NAO is committed to providing and maintaining such an environment through its policies, regulations and education programs. This policy applies to all members of the NAO community in their interaction with other members of the NAO community and supersedes the Sexual Harassment Policy & Procedures and the Equal Opportunity Policy, except where those policies are incorporated by specific reference in an agreement with a unionized group and/or dealt with by legislation. The NAO community includes employees, students, patients, visitors, volunteers, and other individuals who work, visit, or study at NAO.

Nothing contained in this policy shall derogate from the rights, privileges or obligations of the Institution to deal with the issues in a formal manner which then obviates the necessity of dealing with the complaint through dispute resolution. NAO shall provide a work and learning environment free of discrimination and harassment exercised by or against an individual by reason of race, colour, ancestry, place of birth, national origin, citizenship, creed, religious or political affiliation or belief, sex, sexual orientation, physical attributes, family relationship, age (except as consistent with applicable legislation), physical or mental illness or disability, place of residence, or record of offences.

This policy shall not preclude any equity measures implemented by NAO or as required by law. There shall be no harassment or sexual harassment exercised by or against an individual.