Code of Conduct

Introduction

GEEX aims to encourage spontaneous and natural discussion, where everyone feels welcome to participate, speak up, ask questions, and engage in conversation. We encourage everyone to keep their cameras and microphones on as much as they are comfortable doing so.

The nature of these meetings requires a harassment-free environment recognizing the inherent worth of every participant. We invite all those who participate to help create a safe and constructive experience.

Privacy

GEEX believes privacy is essential to maintain this community for all participants. In facilitating this group, we hope to create an alternative space for discussion, allow individuals to express themselves openly and dissolve imbalanced power dynamics.

• Members must agree to respect the privacy of other participants and keep discussions confidential. No specifics from conversations, screenshots, recordings or posts should be shared outside the group, unless you have obtained express written permission from every member that said content involves.
• Do not make audio or visual recordings of virtual meetings—and do not distribute audio or visual recordings of virtual meetings via social media or any other means. Only GEEX or its representatives may do so, only after warning participants to give them an opportunity to opt out.

Community Guidelines

• Support the evolution of this platform. This platform is new; it will continue to adapt and improve with your perspective and participation. As GEEX receives feedback, we will implement changes to help this group grow. We appreciate your interest and patience.
• For synchronous discussions, consider the common goal of the group. For online chat, keep comments specific to the work at hand.

Discussions

• Be mindful of your total speaking time. If you are comfortable, speak up to add to the conversation. Give everyone a chance to speak, without unnecessary pressure.
• Listen actively. Use a pen and paper to record your thoughts, if necessary.
• Understand that we are all learning. If you’ve become aware that you’ve said something offensive or problematic, apologize for your actions and/or words. Stay open and accountable. Fumbles are a necessary part of learning; support one another by modeling humility and practicing compassion.
• Recognize and embrace friction as evidence that multiple ideas are entering the conversation.
• Give credit where it is due. If you are echoing someone’s previously stated idea, give the appropriate credit.
• Ask for clarification — do not assume or project.
• Speak for yourself. Use “I” statements and do not share others’ lived experiences.
• Share mindfully. Please share experiences and relevant resources. Be aware when sharing sensitive information.
• Words matter. Be mindful of the impact of what you say, and not just your intent. In responding, avoid answering to tone instead of content.

Facilitators

The facilitators’ role includes…

• introduction of participants in a forum, encouraging robust discussion of the forum’s agenda, maintaining order, ensuring that the interactions remain within the identified theme for online forums. This role includes editing, moving and even deleting postings.

Violations and Enforcement

GEEX will not tolerate the following behaviors and actions:

• physical and/or verbal threats to any person or group;
• making offensive comments related to any personal characteristic or identity;
• deliberate intimidation, stalking, following;
• sustained disruption of discussion;
• unwelcome sexual attention;
• doxxing and invasion of privacy;
• spam;
• other conduct which could reasonably be considered inappropriate in a professional setting.

Community

If you see a problem, report it. Facilitators are here to care for this space. Participants can also keep each other in check as needed. With your help, facilitators can focus on structuring programming and dialogue.
When you see bad behavior — if you are able — let the person know that what they did is not appropriate and ask them to stop. Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.

GEEX Facilitators and Staff

Each case requires a different approach, and GEEX will tailor any responses to meet the needs of the situation. GEEX staff and facilitators will review each concern on a case-by-case basis.

In each case, GEEX will investigate the content and surrounding context and respond as appropriate, using this Code of Conduct to guide the outcome.

Responses may take include, but are not limited to:

• Verbal and written warning
• Content removal/ejection
• Temporary suspension
• Permanent banning

Contacting GEEX Staff

If for any reason you would like to contact GEEX staff privately, please email support@geex.glass.