Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment

AWWA Policy Statement on Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) strongly recommends the adoption of non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies by all its members and stakeholders in the water industry. Policies should make it clear that discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, immigration and citizenship status, disability of any kind, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, uniformed service or veteran status and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law are not acceptable (Certain jurisdictions may have provisions protecting marital status, socioeconomic position, as well as criminal history, and arrest and conviction history.).

Areas of implementation of non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies include but are not limited to: hiring and firing of staff, professional advancement, selection of volunteers, provision of services, and verbal or physical conduct which impacts the work or volunteer environment and/or an individual’s performance. These policies should apply to employees, volunteers, members, consultants, vendors, suppliers, and others.

AWWA is dedicated to implementing procedures that comply with applicable law in these areas of non-discrimination and anti-harassment and that treat all individuals with dignity and respect.

Practices specified in this policy statement are consistent with all other pertinent AWWA policy statements.

Adopted by the Executive Committee October 2021.