Van Queer Climbers

Van Queer Climbers (VQC): Code of Conduct

At Van Queer Climbers (VQC), our goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, body size, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, religion (or lack thereof), education (or lack thereof) and any other intersection of identity or experience.

As such, participants in programming organized or sanctioned by VQC, agree to the following standards of conduct and behaviour.

If such standards are not met, you may be asked to discontinue your participation in said programs:

• Use gender inclusive and gender affirming language.

• Avoid ableist language or language that excludes or alienates others on the basis of disability.

• Refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behaviour and speech.

• Refrain from racist or ethnocentric behaviour and speech.

• Refrain from name calling or offensive speech of any kind.

• Avoid making or voicing assumptions about gender, pronouns or sexual orientation. Affirm and adopt others’ preferred pronouns as requested/directed by each individual.

• Always ask for consent before engaging in any physical contact with other participants, whether mentors, mentees or other community members. Consent can be withdrawn at any time and this must also be respected.

• There is a zero tolerance policy for physical, emotional or sexual harassment or abuse of any kind in the VQC community.

• Don’t post photos publicly of any community member(s) without their express consent. Ensuring the privacy and safety of community members is of utmost importance.