Code of Conduct

code of conduct

Members will:

be friendly, courteous, and constructive; treat all other members and visitors with respect.
welcome newcomers and help them feel included; share skills, resources, and information in a supportive way.
use inclusive language and avoid assumptions about ability, background, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, age, or socioeconomic status.
respect personal boundaries: ask before handling someone else’s Mocs.
keep discussions focused on the hobby; disagreements are fine but respond to ideas, not people.

Members must not engage in:

harassment, intimidation, or bullying in any form (verbal, physical, written, electronic).
discriminatory speech or actions targeting a person or group based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
threats of violence or any violent behavior.
stalking, doxxing, or sharing someone’s private information without consent.
persistent, unwelcome contact after being asked to stop (in person, via social media, email, phone, or messaging).
sabotage or deliberate damage to another person’s Mocs or displays.

who can report: any member or visitor can report incidents.
how to report:
- submit a report by email to afol@wamalug.com
- what to include in a report: date/time, location, people involved, description of the incident (what happened, what was said/done), names of witnesses, and any evidence (photos, screenshots, messages).
confidentiality: reports will be handled with discretion. information will be shared only with those who need to know to investigate or resolve the matter. reporters may request anonymity; the group will try to honor that unless legal obligations require disclosure.
acknowledgement & timeline: leadership will acknowledge receipt within 3 business days and provide an estimated timeline for next steps.
investigation: leadership or a designated conduct team will review reports, gather relevant information, and interview involved parties and witnesses as needed.
defined consequences for violations: consequences will be proportional to the severity and frequency of the violation and may include:
- verbal warning and reminder of the code of conduct.
- temporary suspension from events, online groups, or membership (duration based on severity).
- permanent ban from events, meetings, and online spaces (revocation of membership).

If a person wishes to appeal a decision, they may submit a written appeal to afol@wamalug.com within 14 days of notification. An impartial appeals panel (not involved in the original decision) will review and respond within 21 days.
The group will review the code of conduct annually and update procedures as needed.