Statement of Appropriate Conduct at Conferences
Adapted from the OLA Statement of Appropriate Conduct as of 2017
The Oregon Library Association Academic Division/Association of College and Research Libraries, Oregon Chapter (ACRL-OR) holds professional conferences, meetings, webinars, and other events to enable its members to receive continuing education, build professional networks, and conduct the business of the association. To provide all participants the opportunity to benefit from the event, ACRL-OR is committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, religion, or other group identity.
As an association, ACRL-OR is strongly committed to diversity, equity and the free expression of ideas. Within the context of ACRL-OR policy and the professional practices of librarianship, critical examination of beliefs and viewpoints does not, by itself, constitute hostile conduct or harassment. Similarly, use of sexual imagery or language in the context of a professional discussion might not constitute hostile conduct or harassment.
ACRL-OR seeks to provide a professional environment in which diverse participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual human respect. We recognize a shared responsibility to create and hold that environment for the benefit of all. Some behaviors are, therefore, specifically prohibited:
- Harassment or intimidation based on race, religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, appearance, or other group status.
- Sexual harassment or intimidation, including unwelcome sexual attention, stalking (physical or virtual), or unsolicited physical contact.
- Intimidating or threatening speakers, attendees, vendors, or others at the event (verbally, in online communication, or physically).
Speakers are asked to frame discussions as openly and inclusively as possible and to be aware of how language or images may be perceived by others. Participants may – and do – exercise their option to leave a session or a conversation.
All participants — including members, attendees, speakers, volunteers, exhibitors, and staff — are expected to observe these rules and behaviors at any ACRL-OR event, including in online venues and at conference social events. Participants asked to stop a hostile or harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. Participants who do not comply, or whose behavior is deemed especially egregious or harmful, will be subject to disciplinary action which can include being barred from further participation in that or future events with no refund. Participants seek to learn, network and have fun. Please do so responsibly and with respect for the right of others to do likewise.
Please contact The ACRL-OR President at acrlor@olaweb.org if you believe you have been harassed or that a harassment problem exists. If you are at a physical conference, you can also approach an ACRL-OR Board Member with your report. All reports will be directed immediately to the ACRL-OR Board who will determine and carry out the appropriate course of action, and who may consult with and engage Oregon Library Association staff, leaders and legal counsel as appropriate. Local law enforcement may be involved, based on an assessment of threat to others or by the request of the victim. A follow-up report will be made to individual(s) who reported being harassed. If you believe you are in imminent danger of physical harm, please call 911 first.
