The Office of Ethics and Policy recently released an equity audit of University policy documents. The audit identifies potential barriers to equity in University policy documents and promotes equity and accessibility in policy design and review. UNC-Chapel Hill graduate students, working in conjunction with Ethics and Policy staff, completed the initial audit during the Fall 2021 semester and drafted a report for publication in March of 2022.
Key Findings from the report:
- Many University policy documents are out of date and contain structural barriers to accessibility including gendered language, high reading levels, extensive jargon, negative statements, and digital accessibility concerns.
- Departments must integrate principles of equity, access, and inclusivity into their regular policy review processes.
- Improving the accessibility of University policy documents is an important first step to addressing disparate impact and wider equity concerns in University policy documents.
UNC-Chapel Hill Students who worked on the Policy Equity Audit:
- Christian Cagle, MSW – School of Social Work
- Teresa Cal, MSW – School of Social Work
- Johanna Concepcion, MSW – School of Social Work
- Macie Rouse, MPA – School of Government