Table of Contents
Edinburgh Hacklab Anti-Harassment Policy
Introduction
The overarching rule of Edinburgh Hacklab and other hackspaces is be excellent to each other, and harassment is most definitely un-excellent. This policy reinforces that message and provides assistance to support the Hacklab in being a place where people can feel welcome and comfortable.
This policy applies to all the Hacklab community including members, guests and workshop attendees. Within a community such as the Hacklab there are likely to be disagreements and differences of opinion. This policy doesn't aim to cover these unless it crosses the line into harassment.
Policy
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
- offensive verbal comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion
- display of sexual images in public spaces
- deliberate intimidation
- stalking
- following
- harassing photography or recording
- inappropriate physical contact
- unwelcome sexual attention
- any other sustained, targeted behavior which makes a member uncomfortable.
Anyone asked to stop any harassing behaviour is expected to comply immediately.
In cases where you feel uncomfortable or unable to speak to the person concerned, or if having spoken to them the behaviour persists there is a variety of support available.
- Contact a Director, they are there to assist.
- Discuss with someome you trust within the Hacklab community - they can help support you in handling the behaviour, and assist you with contacting the Directors.
How directors will deal with this
Any report of harassment will be treated as confidential. When directors receive a report from someone experiencing harassment the directors will record what you say and reassure you that you are being taken seriously, but will avoid making specific promises about what actions they will be taken. They will not pressure the reporter to take any action if they do not want to.
Action taken will be proportionate to the events that have occurred. If appropriate, the directors will initially speak to the individual(s) involved and make clear that the behaviour is unacceptable and must cease.
In the event of serious or repeated instances more robust action will be taken, up to and including expulsion from Hacklab membership/activities.
References: