Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment Policy
1. Purpose
FandomForge Collective (the “Organization”) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all persons participating in its events, programs, meetings, and online platforms, including but not limited to KW Comic Con. This Policy establishes the standards of conduct expected of all individuals associated with the Organization and prohibits any form of harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or abusive behavior.
2. Scope
This Policy applies to all persons involved in the activities of FandomForge Collective, including but not limited to:
Members of the Board of Directors and Officers;
Employees, contractors, and volunteers;
Vendors, exhibitors, artists, sponsors, and guests;
Attendees and participants at any event organized, sponsored, or managed by the Organization; and
Individuals engaging with the Organization through electronic or digital means.
This Policy applies to conduct occurring in person, online, or in any forum where individuals represent or participate in activities under the FandomForge Collective name.
3. Standards of Conduct
All individuals covered by this Policy are expected to:
Conduct themselves in a professional, courteous, and lawful manner.
Respect the rights, safety, and dignity of all persons.
Comply with all applicable laws, venue policies, and event regulations.
Follow the directions of authorized event staff and volunteers.
Use language and behavior that promote a positive, inclusive environment.
Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
Harassment, intimidation, or threats, whether verbal, physical, or written;
Discriminatory comments or behavior based on race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, ethnic background, citizenship, creed, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or any other protected ground under the Ontario Human Rights Code;
Unwelcome sexual advances, physical contact, or suggestive comments;
Physical violence, assault, or unwanted touching;
Disruption of events, meetings, or activities;
Retaliation against any individual who reports or participates in the resolution of a complaint under this Policy.
4. Reporting and Response
Individuals who experience or witness conduct that violates this Policy are encouraged to report the incident to:
A member of the Event Management Team,
A designated FandomForge Collective Director or Officer, or
Via email to the official organizational contact at publicsafety@kwcomiccon.ca.
Reports may be made verbally or in writing and will be handled confidentially to the extent possible. The Organization reserves the right to refer any matter involving potential criminal activity to the appropriate law-enforcement authorities.
5. Enforcement
The Organization takes all reports of misconduct seriously.
Violations of this Policy may result in immediate removal from the event premises, revocation of event credentials, and/or a ban from future events organized by FandomForge Collective.
The Organization reserves the right to deny admission or revoke participation privileges at its sole discretion to maintain the safety and integrity of its events.
6. Retaliation
Retaliation against any individual who makes a good-faith report of misconduct or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited and constitutes a violation of this Policy.
7. Interpretation and Review
This Policy shall be interpreted in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 2010 (Ontario).
The Board of Directors shall review this Policy annually or as necessary to ensure continued compliance with applicable law and best practices in event management and community safety.
8. Acknowledgment
All directors, officers, employees, volunteers, vendors, exhibitors, guests, and contractors are expected to review this Policy and acknowledge their understanding and agreement to comply with its terms as a condition of participation in the activities of FandomForge Collective.