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Code of Conduct

This is a living document and will be updated as needed.

Last updated: January 2025

Purpose

This Code of Conduct exists to ensure that all participants feel safe, respected, and welcome. Our community values diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect. Everyone has the right to enjoy the event free from harassment, discrimination, or intimidation. The Code of Conduct applies to all spaces linked to the convention including virtual spaces. The Code of Conduct is a living document and will be updated as needed.

Expected behaviours

We expect our members to:

  • Treat all individuals with respect and courtesy.
  • Communicate in a constructive, considerate, and inclusive manner.
  • Respect differing viewpoints and experiences.
  • Follow all event policies, including accessibility, disease mitigation and safety guidelines.
  • Comply with local laws and venue regulations.

Unacceptable behaviour

The following behaviours will not be tolerated:

  • Harassment of any kind, including verbal, physical, or visual.
  • Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or any other protected characteristic.
  • Unwanted physical contact or sexual attention.
  • Intimidation, stalking, or sustained disruption of activities.
  • Offensive or derogatory comments, jokes, or gestures.
  • Distribution or display of inappropriate or offensive material.
  • Retaliation against anyone reporting a concern.

We know that sometimes it can be difficult to define what constitutes harassment. For our purposes this includes (but is not limited to):

  • Deliberate intimidation or threats.
  • Inappropriate photography or recording.
  • Unwelcome sexual language or imagery.
  • Persistent unwanted interaction after being asked to stop.
  • Loitering with intent — specifically remaining in or deliberately moving to locations in order to cause discomfort to others.

How to make a report about a Code of Conduct breach

If you experience or witness unacceptable behaviour there are multiple ways you can seek support:

  • Talk to the designated CoC representative (to be announced) in person.
  • Email coc@smofconlisbon.org
  • We will announce how to report via Discord when it launches.

Reports will be handled promptly, respectfully, and confidentially.

If you feel unsafe, seek assistance from event staff or venue security.

Consequences

Actions have consequences and this applies to all members of the convention including staff and volunteers. Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings.
  • Removal from the event without a refund.
  • Referral to venue security or law enforcement if necessary.
  • Recommendation to future conventions about participation restrictions.

Commitment

By attending the convention, either in person or online, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and contribute to a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all.

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the work of other conventions, particularly Glasgow 2024, Reconnect 2025, and Iridescence 2026, in creating this policy.