The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to prevent the behavior of one individual from disturbing the rest of the members. It applies to all pre-con, at-the-con, and post-con activities related to Chessiecon. All members are encouraged to read this code and ask questions about anything they do not understand.
Chessiecon is prepared to deal with any violations of the code as legally, rapidly, and efficiently as possible. We hope that each member will help to make Chessiecon an enjoyable experience for all, by respecting the rights of all attendees.
Failure to adhere to the code of conduct may result in:
1. Verbal warnings
2. Mediation by the Con Chair and Convention Head of Security with all parties involved in an incident
3. Turning the individual over to hotel/convention center staff/security
4. Revocation of membership and ejection from Chessiecon
5. Contacting local law enforcement
Chessiecon reserves the right to revoke memberships and to eject individuals from Chessiecon at any time for violations of this code, regardless of whether any other actions have been taken. No refunds will be provided.
PERSONAL INTERACTION: We ask that you respect others. We want everyone to be comfortable and feel safe while attending Chessiecon.
1. Harassment of others will not be tolerated and is a violation of the code of conduct.
2. If someone asks you to leave them alone, walk away and do not approach them again. There is no reason for you to have any further interaction with them. If you feel there is, speak with a member of the convention committee or staff, and an intermediary will be found to conduct whatever transactions are necessary. Apologizing to someone is not leaving them alone.
3. Discrimination against any convention member based on irrelevant characteristics will not be tolerated and is a violation of the code of conduct. Such irrelevant characteristics include but are not limited to: gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or physical/mental disability.
4. Assumption of a performance persona does not justify the assumption of familiarity by those viewing the performance. Treat our performers with respect at all times, no matter how baudy or suggestive their act.
5. If you feel that you have been harassed or discriminated against:
a. Politely tell the individual that their behavior is inappropriate. Sometimes this is sufficient.
b. If you do not feel comfortable talking with the individual or individuals involved, or if talking to them once does not work, please immediately report the situation to any Chessiecon committee or staff member. If possible provide names or badge names and physical descriptions of those involved. The committee or staff member will notify Convention Head of Security and/or the Con Chair.
6. PLEASE consider reporting. Unless an incident is reported, nothing can be done.
Chessiecon reserves the right to amend the code of conduct at any time without prior or posted notice and reserves the sole right of interpretation. The rules stated above are not all inclusive. Any action or behavior that is illegal, unsafe, or causes significant interference with convention operations, excessive discomfort to members, or adversely affects Chessiecon's relationship with its guests, the venue, or the public is strictly forbidden.