NHSBBQA Non Discrimination Civil Rights

Non-Discrimination & Civil Rights Compliance Statement

Commitment to Equal Opportunity

The National High School BBQ Association® (NHSBBQA®) is committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment for all students, educators, volunteers, and participants.

NHSBBQA® operates in alignment with applicable federal civil rights laws and supports the civil rights obligations of public and private schools participating in NHSBBQA® programs.

Federal Civil Rights Compliance

NHSBBQA® does not discriminate on the basis of, and is committed to compliance with:

• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  (Race, color, or national origin)

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
  (Sex, including sex stereotypes, sexual orientation, and gender identity, consistent with applicable law)

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
  (Disability)

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
  (Accessibility and reasonable accommodation)

These protections apply to all NHSBBQA®-sanctioned programs, activities, events, and educational opportunities.

Scope of Application

This non-discrimination policy applies to:

• Students

• Educators and school staff

• Volunteers and judges

• State High School BBQ Associations®

• Sponsors and partners

• Program applicants and participants

Participation in NHSBBQA® programs is open to eligible individuals without unlawful discrimination.

Schools & District Authority

NHSBBQA® recognizes and respects that participating schools and districts retain primary authority over student enrollment, eligibility, accommodations, and compliance with federal and state education laws.

NHSBBQA® does not supersede school or district civil rights policies and operates in support of, not in conflict with, local education agencies.

Accessibility & Reasonable Accommodations

NHSBBQA® supports reasonable accommodations for participants with disabilities when requested through appropriate school channels and consistent with applicable law.

Requests for accommodations should be made through the student’s school or district in coordination with NHSBBQA® program leadership.

Harassment & Retaliation Prohibited

Harassment, intimidation, or retaliation against any individual for asserting their civil rights or participating in a complaint process is strictly prohibited.

Any behavior inconsistent with this policy may result in corrective action, suspension, or removal from NHSBBQA® programs.

Reporting Concerns or Complaints

Individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination in connection with an NHSBBQA®-related activity are encouraged to report concerns promptly.

Reports may be directed to:

• The participant’s school or district (primary reporting channel), and/or

• The National High School BBQ Association® governance team

Reports will be reviewed consistent with NHSBBQA® governance procedures and in coordination with school or district leadership when appropriate.

Good-Faith Compliance

NHSBBQA® is committed to ongoing review and improvement of its policies to ensure alignment with evolving federal guidance, education standards, and best practices for student protection and equity.

Policy Updates

This Non-Discrimination & Civil Rights Compliance Statement may be updated periodically to reflect changes in law, regulation, or guidance from the U.S. Department of Education or other governing authorities.

Related Governance Resources

• Apply to Become a State Association

• Are We Official?

• Governance, Licensing & Legitimacy

• State Association License Agreement

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