[Eg-oversight-board] Code of Conduct Procedures

[Kathy Lussier]

Hi all,

I'm sending along some background for the Code of Conduct topic I added 
to the agenda.

Since we approved the Code of Conduct last March, I've come across 
several reports of conferences (both in the technology or library 
spheres) where codes of conduct were violated or some form of harassment 
occurred. In one case, there was an active code of conduct in place and 
formal complaints were made, but the conference organizers mishandled 
the complaints.

It started me thinking about whether we have proper procedures in place 
to enforce our code of conduct if it is violated. Since we don't really 
have any procedures in place, I would say the answer is "no."

Our code of conducts states:
"If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, 
or have any other concerns, please contact a member of event staff 
immediately. Event staff can be identified by a clearly marked “STAFF” 
badge, button or shirt.

Event staff will be happy to help participants contact hotel/venue 
security or local law enforcement, provide escorts, or otherwise assist 
those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the 
event. We value your attendance."

These statements lead me to believe that event staff will be responsible 
for handling all reports of harassment. Given that we have a conference 
planning committee that changes from year to year, I don't think this is 
the best approach.

What I would like to see is the designation of two or three advocates 
who are responsible for handling complaints. Any advocates should 
receive training before conference time. In talking with Galen, he 
mentioned that that Ada Initiative might be able to provide some 
training on handling complaints over the phone if we requested it.

I don't have a problem with people reporting complaints to event staff 
as long as all event planners/volunteers know who those advocates are. I 
also think it would be good for those advocates to have time at each 
conference to let people know who they are and to make sure our code of 
conduct expectations are communicated at the conference.

I don't think we can come up with all of the procedures at today's 
meeting, but I would be interested in working with a few other people on 
developing some procedures and hearing if people have other ideas on how 
complaints should be handled. These guidelines at the Geek Feminism wiki 
might be a good starting point. 
http://geekfeminism.wikia.com/wiki/Conference_anti-harassment/Responding_to_reports

Thanks!
Kathy

-- 
Kathy Lussier
Project Coordinator
Massachusetts Library Network Cooperative
(508) 343-0128
klussier at masslnc.org
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kmlussier
#evergreen IRC: kmlussier