Anti‑Harassment Training & Policy – Mount Zion Baptist Church

Mount Zion | Anti-Harassment Training & Policy

Our Commitment

Mount Zion prohibits all forms of harassment and retaliation. This policy covers employees, applicants, pastors, trustees and ministry leaders, members and volunteers, visitors, contractors, vendors, and anyone doing business with the church.

What Counts as Harassment?

Unwelcome conduct based on sex or gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression) that creates a hostile environment, affects work/participation, or is tied to decisions. Examples: unwanted touching; leering; sexual jokes; repeated unwelcome advances; explicit messages.

Zero Retaliation

Retaliation for reporting or participating in an investigation is prohibited. Reports are reviewed promptly and kept as confidential as possible. Please report within seven (7) calendar days of an incident so we can act quickly.

Anti-Harassment Micro-Training

Expand each topic for key points and examples. When you finish, send the acknowledgment below.

Recognizing Prohibited Conduct

Physical: unwanted touching, blocking movement, assault.
Visual: leering; sexual images, cartoons, or websites.
Verbal: slurs, sexual jokes, comments about body/gender, repeated unwelcome invitations.
Digital: explicit or suggestive texts, DMs, emails, social posts.

Where & When Harassment Can Occur

Not just in the church office. It can occur during travel, church events, online, via text or social media, and even outside scheduled work hours.

Safe Reporting Options

If you experience or witness harassment or discrimination, please report right away:

Human Resources Ministry (Chair): hr@mountzionseattle.org (mandatory if the complaint involves an employee)
Diaconate Ministry (Chair): contact via church office.

We investigate promptly and maintain confidentiality to the extent possible.

Investigation & Follow-Up

We conduct a fair, prompt review and take corrective action when warranted. All covered persons must cooperate. Retaliation is prohibited.

Faith & Community Standard

Beyond legal definitions, we strive for a culture free from disrespect and divisiveness, honoring Christ by encouraging and building one another up.

Go to Acknowledgment
Open Policy (PDF)
Open Flyer (PDF)

FAQs

Can I report if I’m not the target?

Yes. Witnesses are encouraged to report concerns so we can protect the community.

Is a single incident enough to report?

Yes. Report any concerning behavior. Early reporting helps prevent escalation.

Will my report be kept confidential?

We keep reports and investigations confidential to the extent possible and only share information with those who need to know.

Who Is Covered?

Employees, applicants, pastors, trustees, ministry members, deacons, committees, supervisors, congregation members, visitors, interns & volunteers (paid or unpaid), contractors, vendors, customers, and anyone conducting business with Mount Zion.

Acknowledgment

After reviewing the policy and completing the micro-training, please click below to submit your acknowledgment.

Send Acknowledgment Email

If email isn’t available, submit your acknowledgment in writing to the church office.