Fall 1996

Discrimination Complaint Against University of Maine Settled

Mary Bassett, a member of the Passamaquoddy community, applied for admission to a writing course offered by the University of Maine at Machias during the spring semester of 1995. When she was denied admission, Mary firmly believed that she was denied because of her race. She also strongly believed that such discriminatory treatment must stop. Mary filed a letter of complaint with the President of the University of Maine at Machias (UMM). She also asked the Native American Unit of Pine Tree for help. We represented Mary in her complaint through the University's complaint process and we also assisted her in filing a complaint with the United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights. We continued the battle through months of investigation, meetings, discussions, and negotiations. In July of 1996, the UMM agreed to enter into an agreement to resolve the allegations.

Pursuant to that agreement, the UMM revised the promotion and selection process for all courses, seminars, and workshops with selective enrollments. UMM also agreed to take additional steps to reach out to the Native American communities at Pleasant Point and Indian Township, including sending course offerings for publication in tribal newsletters and conducting at least annually at both communities a general information session by admissions staff about academic programs, support services, admissions process, and financial aid. UMM will also establish a committee with Native American and University representatives to assess the needs of Native Americans who want a higher education and to identify UMM resources available to meet those needs.

According to Mary, "We need to stand up against discriminatory treatment. Although the legal process can be long and difficult, there are allies out there like Pine Tree Legal who can help us. My case resulted in some positive changes. That is important, and provides hope to others."