Code of Conduct

Quick Version | Long Version | Reporting

The Quick Version

Our conference is dedicated to providing a harassment-free conference experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate for any conference venue, including talks, workshops, parties, Twitter and other online media. Conference participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the conference without a refund at the discretion of the conference organisers.

The Less Quick Version

Harassment includes offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, technology choices, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention.

Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.

Sponsors are also subject to the anti-harassment policy. In particular, sponsors should not use sexualised images, activities, or other material. Booth staff (including volunteers) should not use sexualised clothing/uniforms/costumes, or otherwise create a sexualised environment.

If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the conference organisers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the conference with no refund.

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of conference staff immediately or use the reporting mechanisms below. Conference staff can be identified as they'll be wearing branded clothing and/or badges.

Conference 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 conference. We value your attendance.

We expect participants to follow these rules at conference and workshop venues and conference-related social events.

Reporting

We take Code of Conduct Violations very seriously, and urge attendees, speakers, sponsors, and all others at the events to report any violations they see - even if they are unsure if it constitutes a violation.

Reporting via Text/ SMS

You may report any violations or any events that make you feel uneasy by texting (650) 466-6782. Our team will immediately respond and work with you to ensure your safety, and that the situation is promptly addressed.

Reporting via Phone

For situations that require immediate intervention, please call us (650) 466-6782. A trained member of our team will be on the line with you until they are able to arrive at your location. In the event of an emergency (medical, fire, or one that requires law enforcement) please dial 911 and then call us or notify us once it is safe to do so.

Reporting Anonymously

We understand not everyone is comfortable reporting or sharing Code of Conduct violations. If that is the case, please use our anonymous form to share information with us. While we understand that there are different reasons for not wanting to share a violation, we want to make Midwest PHP an event where everyone feels included, and safe to participate in all events. Our trained team takes all reports seriously, and will investigate anonymous reports just as vigorously as other reports.

Anonymous Reporting Form (link to be added once closer to Conference)