- What's the Value of a Code of Conduct?
- Establishing a Code of Conduct
- Evaluating the Codes of Conduct You See
- What if a Conference Doesn't Have a Code of Conduct?
- Codes of Conduct are Just a Starting Point
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Codes of Conduct are Just a Starting Point
“Thinking about how your community interacts and giving examples of acceptable versus unacceptable behavior is the best way to make sure everyone is on the same page,” says Chavez. “Have all attendees and speakers check a box when they register, saying they read and will abide by the code of conduct, to show everyone in the community that this is a top priority of the conference organizers.”
Ultimately, a code of conduct serves as an announcement that a community welcomes members of all types and will protect their ability to be part of the community as a whole.
The initial result can seem disheartening: many events have seen a growing number of reports of problems over the past decade. But that increase represents the growing sense that reporting a problem will not open the victim up to even more trouble. “After a code of conduct is established and enforced by organizers, community members will call out problematic negative behaviors when they see them, and are more likely to report violations. Someone who might otherwise have felt unsure or afraid of speaking up about being harassed will know that their voice will be heard. A code of conduct isn't for policing; it's to make everything more fair. Everyone has to abide by the rules, and no one is exempt, even keynote speakers. There will be accountability for bad behavior,” explains Chavez.
That accountability is rapidly making a difference in how conferences function. More diverse groups of people feel welcome at even the most technical conferences, providing opportunities for everyone to be part of the major discussions driving technology forward.