Code of conduct
This code of conduct was created by the Pagan and Heathen Symposium in 2015 (see Pagan Heathen Symposium). They created a code of conduct that can be optionally adopted by any group who wish to show that they recognise and protect the diversity within their event and/or group. They do not wish to enforce rules on the community, however, for public events, it is good practice as well as a requirement that some kind of statement is available showing consideration of creating a safe environment for participants. Pagan Phoenix Southwest have adopted the code of conduct (repeated below) for our events.
We [Pagan Phoenix Southwest] are committed to providing a positive and trouble-free experience for all, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race*, ethnicity, age, theological perspective, or relationship status (polyamory, monogamy, singleness). We do not tolerate unacceptable behaviour in any form. Anyone violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the group or event as appropriate, possibly without a refund, at our discretion.
This document can be found at the Pagan and Heathen Symposium website, where it will be reviewed at least annually by the members of the Symposium, and updated without warning when appropriate.
Full policy
This document covers unacceptable behaviour whether within or outside the law.
Unacceptable behaviour includes:
- Verbal harassment, especially when it reinforces social structures of domination related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, theological perspective, relationship status (polyamory, monogamy, singleness).
- Deliberate intimidation, bullying and or stalking, and any other behaviour which is likely to cause alarm or distress to a reasonable person.
- Photography or recording that can reasonably be interpreted as harassment. Additional photography and recording policies may apply particularly to events held in private spaces.
- Sustained disruption of talks or other events (including through intoxication of alcohol and/or drugs).
- Inappropriate or unwanted physical contact – this includes hugging and kissing if a person has indicated they are uncomfortable with it – we advise that you always seek consent when offering hugs or kisses.
- Unwelcome sexual or other personal attention.
- Theft or extortion including by deception.
- Any other act that contravenes the law.
- Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviour.
Enforcement
If anyone is asked to cease unacceptable behaviour it is expected that they will comply immediately.
If this occurs during an event, the organisers will take any actions reasonably necessary to keep the event a welcoming environment for all participants. This may include warning the person who is acting in breach of this policy and, in appropriate cases, requiring them to leave the event without a refund or the imposition of sanctions for future events.
We expect participants to follow these rules at all event venues and event-related activities, including any other informal social activities.
Activities, Talks And Workshops
Any activities, talks or workshops which discuss subjects or engage in activities which the organisers believe some people may find uncomfortable will have adequate disclosure as to their content, so that potential attendees can make an informed decision whether to attend. It will also be made clear that people can leave activities, talks or workshops which make them uncomfortable at any time. No one should ever feel pressured into participating, attending or staying.
Incidents
If you are being subjected to unacceptable behaviour or notice that someone else is being subjected to unacceptable behaviour or have any other concerns, please first consider informing the person or persons responsible that you would like them to stop and you may also wish to notify the organisers. Often the offending behaviour is unintentional and those involved will resolve the incident amicably.
If you believe that bringing up the incident with the person involved may have negative consequences for you or others or could lead to further breaches then please inform a member of the organising team about the incident.
Reporting
Violations of this code reduce the value of events for everyone. We want your experience of events to be positive. If the unacceptable behaviour persists even after the person involved has been asked to stop, their behaviour should be reported promptly to the event organisers. The report should be made by the recipient of the unacceptable behaviour and/or a direct witness.
Event organisers will ensure that staff to whom an incident should be reported are easily identifiable and that all events have a central point of contact.
When taking a personal report, staff will ensure safety and discretion. We may also seek permission to involve other relevant staff from the event, venue and organisation to ensure the report is managed properly. We handle reports as respectfully and discreetly as possible but may, under some circumstances, be required by law to disclose.
If requested, our team will help the person reporting the incident to contact security staff, the Police or local support services where appropriate.
We will endeavour to provide escorts where appropriate to people who are concerned about their safety.
We value participation in our events and appreciate all efforts to provide a safe and friendly space for all.
Notes
* Race is now generally seen as a social rather than a biological construct, and although we have used the term we are aware that alternatives are often preferred.
This document is the work of many people but was originally based on:
This version (1.0) published by the Pagan and Heathen Symposium on 6 December 2015
pagansymposium.org and heathensymposium.org
Pagan Phoenix SW 