The Workshop Workshop is premised on the belief that everyone has things to offer, that each person's contribution has value -- which means that each person has value. It's a beautiful premise! 

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And, if each person's contribution matters, that means that how we show up matters. We each contribute to the make-up and culture of this thing. 

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Creating this micro culture and space of mutual learning together is a way of working towards the world we want to live in. This process includes working to dismantle harmful constructs within ourselves (sexism, racism, homophobia, ableism, etc.). These harmful constructs exist to varying degrees within each of us, and therefore we can expect mistakes and missteps. When mistakes are inevitably made, or unexamined harmful systemic patterns are expressed, this framework exists to help us support each other to realign with our shared values and commitments to one another. 

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Values

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• We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, nationality, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, body type, religion, or political affiliation. We will not tolerate racism, white supremacy, anti-semitism, xenophobia, trans/homophobia, or oppression of any kind. 

• Beyond these legal requirements, we believe true community must exceed the standard of “do no harm” and aspire to the creation of an accountable community that welcomes difference and leans into healthy resolution of conflicts.

• We embrace justice and equity, which go beyond fairness. They provide to each according to their needs and ask each to contribute according to their gifts so that all can thrive.

• We will be mindful and aware of everyone’s unique struggles, some of which may be unseen and unknown.

• We welcome multiple viewpoints.

• We accept discomfort as a necessary part of growth, learning, and expanding our worldviews.

• We value reasonable risk-taking, and making mistakes, but ask that we also own up to our mistakes as we learn and grow.

• We will honor people’s lived experiences.

Norms & Expectations

 

• Every participant is expected to strive to contribute to a collaborative and healthy environment in which we can all thrive.

• Treat others with dignity, respect, and compassion. 

• Assume good intent while also remembering that what we say and do, regardless of our intentions, can impact people in many ways.

• Be generous and kind in both giving and accepting critique. Be open to acknowledging and learning from mistakes with the understanding that doing so creates opportunities for healing and growth.

• Hold ourselves accountable when strong emotions move us into potentially hurtful speech.

• When confidentiality is agreed upon, it is expected to be observed.

• Each person gets to determine the level of participation that reflects my capacity and needs.

• When we do choose to participate, we pledge to do so with our best intent, with respect and integrity, and to remain engaged.

• We will challenge or disagree with others with care, and address the idea and not the person (i.e. without personal attacks).

• We will each strive to recognize our own privilege (race, class, gender, sexual orientation, ability).

• We'll speak from our own experience and not that of others.

• Ask questions with curiosity and an open mind to understand the source of disagreements.

• Take in what is being discussed before thinking about how to respond, and notice when defensiveness and denial arise.

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Unacceptable Conduct

 

Engaging in any of the activities outlined below will be considered a violation of the Code of Conduct and will trigger the organizational responses outlined in ‘Procedures’ below.

 

• Discrimination or harassment of any kind including but not limited to: intimidation; inappropriate physical contact; intentional or repeated misgendering; sexist, racist, ableist, or otherwise discriminatory or derogatory language; and unwelcome sexual attention.

• Bringing dangerous or unauthorized materials such as explosives, firearms, or weapons.

• Sale of illegal substances.

• Abusive language, bullying, discourtesy or rudeness to a fellow participant.

• Actual or threatened violence/bullying (emotional, verbal, physical) toward any individual or group.

• Conduct endangering the life, safety, health or well-being of others.

• Interactions that may not rise to the level of overt exclusion or harassment, but still communicate bias, perpetuate stereotypes and inequitable power dynamics, or emphasize differences. 

• Microaggressions—subtle put-downs which may be unconsciously delivered, but that can still have a significant negative impact.

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Guidelines for Responding to Conflicts

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• Conflicts are a natural part of human relationships. Many can be resolved quite simply without the need for an official process. If you feel safe and reasonably comfortable, consider first speaking directly with the person or people involved. Concerns or complaints that cannot be resolved directly should be brought to the Workshop Workshop coordinator or a member of the Advisory Council.

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A Note on Kids at Camp

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While this is primarily a camp for grown-ups, our community includes some kids! And they are valued and important members of the community. Making space for children is one of the ways we can make this event accessible to a wider range of people. Each participant can decide if they want their workshop to be open to kids or if they would prefer for it to be adults only.