Tribe implements new domestic violence leave policy

By Nicole Montesano

Smoke Signals staff writer

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde has instituted a new domestic violence leave policy to enable employees to take time needed to seek protection or deal with home needs.

It provides for up to 90 days leave for employees who are victims of domestic violence, harassment, sexual assault or stalking. It also covers time for employees to seek care for their minor children or dependents.

Copies of the new policy were emailed to all employees in early September. They must contact their manager and/or human resources representative to submit a request.

“The policy was designed to ensure support for time off to attend court, counseling or relocation appoints without fear of losing their job,” Tribal Human Resources Director Sarah Harvey said. “This type of policy for the casino and Tribe will build loyalty and reduce turnover. It is also a visible commitment to protecting our employees, as it fosters a culture of care and inclusion. The policy also signals to the workforce and the community, that we do not tolerate harassment, intimidation or violence of any form. In short, a domestic violence and stalking policy is essential because it saves lives.”

Harvey said she and Spirit Mountain Casino CEO Camille Mercier “began discussions on a policy over a year ago, due to the state of Oregon’s protections that are in place. We wanted to extend our commitment to protecting employees in a personal situation that is unsafe.”

The policy stipulates that “employees will not face retaliation, discrimination or any adverse action for requesting accommodations or taking leave related to domestic violence and any related harassment, sexual assault or stalking.”

It also stipulates that employees may request “reasonable safety accommodations,” including being walked to their car, modified work schedules, transfers or reassignments and changes to work phone number or workstations, in addition to taking unpaid leave.

“I believe we are a leader in Tribal government at this time,” Harvey said.

The policy also reminds employees of the following resources:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Find a Shelter near you: www.domesticshelters.org
• National Network to End Domestic Violence: www.nnedv.org
• Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence: ocadsv.org

For more information about the new policy, contact humanresources@grandronde.org or 503-879-2109.