To advance UNC Asheville’s mission of building an inclusive and sustainable campus environment, the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) exists to promote a safe, hate-free environment where people of all identities can live, work, and learn. A bias incident is an act of bigotry, harassment or intimidation – verbal, written or physical – which is personally directed against or targets a student at the University because of that student’s race, age, color, disability, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy status, sexual orientation, or veteran status. BIRT works to support all parties involved by listening, discussing resources, and providing formal and informal options for moving forward. Our team uses restorative practices to promote care, education, and campus restoration.