Hi All,

TL:DR

We haven't had any issues with exclusion or harassment, but let's agree on a code of conduct for the future, so anyone coming along knows what's expected of them and that they feel safe

As part of getting the group up and running regularly again, I though it was worthwhile us agreeing on a code of conduct to ensure that participants feel safe and supported.

I'm not aware of any issues to date, so this is about ensuring that all people feel welcome and safe, in particular anyone who may be thinking of coming along for the first time.

I think that Heroku have done a pretty great job of clarifying the expected standards for any event they sponsor and would propose that we use an adaptation of their rules.  Their original is available at https://www.heroku.com/policy/events and I've adapted the wording to match our group.

We are dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of event participants in any form. Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate for any event venue, including talks.

Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down other attendees. Behave professionally. Remember that harassment and sexist, racist, or exclusionary jokes are not appropriate for RoRO events.

Event participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the event at the discretion of the event organisers.

Harassment includes offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention. Participants asked to stop any harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, the event organisers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the conference. If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of the event organisation team, or someone you feel comfortable telling, immediately.

Event organisers will be happy to help participants contact venue security or local law enforcement, provide escorts, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the event. We value your attendance.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all event venues and event-related social events.

Feedback

I'm happy to take feedback if anyone has any other suggestions.  Email me or leave a message on the board.