Code of Conduct

The Institute for Independent Journalists believes that our events should be open to all members and IIJ guests. We’re committed to providing a friendly, safe and welcoming environment for all, regardless of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion. Our mission is the emotional and financial sustainability of freelancers of color, and everyone is welcome at our events. We believe in creating strong multi-racial networks.

This code of conduct outlines our expectations for attendees’ behavior at IIJ events as well as the consequences of unacceptable behavior. We expect all participants (speakers, attendees, staff and other guests) to abide by this code of conduct at all event venues and event-related social functions.

Expected Behavior

First and foremost, treat everyone with respect. Participate while acknowledging that everyone deserves respectful treatment, and that every participant has the right to enjoy their experience at IIJ without fear of harassment or discrimination.

Be considerate, respectful and collaborative.

Refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behavior and speech.

Immediately inform IIJ's executive director or another leader in person, by phone or e-mail if you experience a distressful situation.

Many IIJ events are shared with members of the public; please be respectful to all patrons of these locations.

Unacceptable Behavior

Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to: intimidating, threatening, harassing, abusive, discriminatory, derogatory, demeaning or disorderly conduct, or possession, use, or distribution of any illegal substances. IIJ does not tolerate the use or abuse of illegal substances at any of the venues where IIJ events are held.

Harassing conduct can take many forms and may include, but is not limited to, the following: slurs, offensive jokes, statements, gestures, photographs, drawings, cartoons or pictures, assault, impeding or blocking another’s movement or otherwise physically interfering with activities, conducting unwanted audio or visual recordings, violating someone’s “personal space,” engaging in leering, stalking, staring, intimidating or threatening behavior, or making offensive communications such as in the form of emails, telephone calls, voicemails, text messages or social media. Sexually harassing conduct in particular may include all of these prohibited actions, as well as other unwelcome conduct, such as requests for sexual favors, conversation containing sexual comments, physical contact, lewd or offensive behavior or language, and other unwelcome sexual advances. Sexually harassing conduct can be by a person of either the same or opposite sex. IIJ reserves the right in its sole discretion to determine what constitutes unacceptable behavior.

Consequences of Unacceptable Behavior

Unacceptable behavior will not be tolerated whether by other attendees, media, speakers, or venue staff. Anyone asked to stop engaging in unacceptable behavior is expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in unacceptable behavior, IIJ may take any action we deem appropriate, up to and including immediate expulsion without warning from the event and without refund of any registration or other fees, and revocation of your membership(s) in IIJ.

Online Events

This code of conduct applies to all participants at all IIJ events, including online events hosted on Zoom or another platform. Any concerns should be reported to IIJ’s executive director or another team member. Please immediately notify security staff and/or IIJ’s executive director or team member as soon as possible, in person, by phone or email.

What to Do If You Witness or Experience Unacceptable Behavior

Speak up! Harassment will not be tolerated at IIJ event. If you are subject to unacceptable behavior, notice that someone else is being subject to unacceptable behavior, or have any other concerns, please immediately notify security staff and/or the IIJ executive director or another leader as soon as possible, in person, by phone or email. Please also notify appropriate law enforcement if necessary.

IIJ will be available to help participants contact venue security or local law enforcement, to provide escorts, or to otherwise assist those experiencing unacceptable behavior to feel safe for the duration of the event.

Termination

The IIJ has the right to remove members or refuse access to any content that was provided. You understand and acknowledge that any violation may lead to the termination of your access and services.