Anti-Harassment Policy
Heal Ventures is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone involved in our organization. We have a zero-tolerance policy against any form of workplace harassment, including harassment on the basis of race, color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, sex, gender, gender identity and/or expression, genetic predisposition, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital, parental, domestic partnership, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other basis prohibited by applicable laws. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, vendors, portfolio company employees, entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone involved with Heal Ventures.
If harassment occurs within the scope of our business, whether in the office, at work-related events, or during interactions with partners, clients, or portfolio companies, Heal Ventures will address the issue as if the perpetrator were a direct employee of the firm. We strongly encourage our portfolio companies to adopt a similar policy to foster a culture of respect and dignity.
A. Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
Submission to such conduct is made a condition of employment.
Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions.
Such conduct has the effect of creating a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance.
Examples of sexual harassment may include but are not limited to:
Inappropriate comments or jokes of a sexual nature.
Unwelcome physical contact, such as touching, hugging, or brushing against someone.
Comments about someone's appearance, body, or sexual conduct.
Sending or sharing explicit content, including emails, texts, or images.
Requests for dates or romantic attention after being informed the interest is unwelcome.
Retaliation against someone for reporting sexual harassment or refusing advances.
Offering employment benefits in exchange for sexual favors or threatening adverse consequences for refusal.
B. Other Forms of Harassment
Workplace harassment is not limited to sexual harassment. It also includes verbal or physical conduct that demeans, insults, or shows hostility based on protected characteristics, such as:
Use of slurs, negative stereotypes, or derogatory comments.
Threatening, intimidating, or hostile behavior targeting individuals based on race, religion, gender identity, or other protected traits.
Displaying offensive symbols, slogans, or materials that insult or demean based on any of the above characteristics.
Circulating offensive or inappropriate content via email, social media, or other communication channels related to Heal Ventures.
Reporting Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation
Any individual associated with Heal Ventures who believes they have been subjected to, witnessed, or become aware of any form of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation should immediately report the incident. Reports can be made to any partner, manager, or designated representative within Heal Ventures.
We strictly prohibit retaliation against anyone who reports, provides information about, or assists in the investigation of any harassment, discrimination, or retaliation claim.
Investigation and Resolution
Heal Ventures will conduct a thorough, impartial, and timely investigation of any reported incidents. When necessary, a third-party investigator may be engaged to ensure objectivity. If it is determined that a violation of our harassment policy has occurred, we will take appropriate corrective actions, up to and including termination of employment or business relationships.
Confidentiality will be maintained to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct an investigation and take appropriate action.
Policy Review and Enforcement
Heal Ventures is committed to regularly reviewing and updating this policy to align with best practices and legal standards. We believe in fostering a culture where all individuals feel safe, respected, and valued.