Which of the following is NOT considered retaliation under the anti-discrimination policy?

In the context of anti-discrimination policy, retaliation is defined as any adverse action taken against an employee because they have engaged in protected activity, such as reporting discrimination or harassment. The key aspect of retaliation is that it must have a negative impact on the individual’s employment or create a hostile work environment.

The option involving giving an employee or witness a funny look may seem like it has the potential for negative implications; however, it does not constitute an actionable or clearly defined retaliation when compared to the other examples. A "funny look" is quite subjective and may not have a discernible impact on a person's job or well-being.

In contrast, the other examples, such as the use of negative remarks, hostility, and exclusion, are overt behaviors that create a toxic work environment and clearly demonstrate a retaliatory motive that can adversely affect an individual’s career or work experience.

The delineation between subtle gestures or expressions and overtly hostile behaviors highlights why the specific action of giving a funny look does not fall under the category of retaliation in the same way as the more aggressive or exclusionary behaviors do.