Sunday Assembly Atlanta has long needed our own code of conduct that specifically reflects our values. For a long while, we’ve used Nashville’s while we struggled to create a document that, in my opinion, got too complex for what we needed. I also found that keeping it as streamlined as possible would actually encourage folks to read it, reflect upon it, and commit to upholding it.

Check it out at this official link, where the document may change over time: sundayassemblyatlanta.org/conduct

For convenience, here it is at time of writing:

Sunday Assembly Atlanta Code of Conduct

Sunday Assembly Atlanta upholds its values and the values of Sunday Assembly by addressing unacceptable behavior at our events and in our broader community. This applies to event attendees, participants in online spaces, volunteers, organizers, members of the board of directors, and anyone representing SAA.

The SAA board and organizers enforce the code of conduct using its discretion. The goal is not to punish but instead to create a flourishing, positive community environment by recognizing and reducing harm.

In general, participants in SAA have a responsibility to be aware of their impact on others. This means interacting mindfully with those we may not fully relate to, who have different perspectives and experiences.

Expected Behavior

• Respect bodily autonomy and consent. Ask before touching.
  • Ex: hugs at SAA events are meaningful, but even more important is knowing they’re wanted.
• Refrain from proselytizing, intimidating, harassing, discriminatory, abusive, or violent behavior.
  • Ex: promoting religious ideas or attempting to convert is not permitted in our secular group.
  • We “welcome all who welcome all”, considering a wide range of identities and traits, including:
    gender, sex, orientation, race, ethnicity, neurodiversity, appearance, disability, religion, age, class.
• Listen at least as much as you speak to create a thoughtful balance in activities and conversation.
  • Ex: provide space for perspectives and experience from those marginalized or heard less often.
• Exercise consideration and respect in your speech and actions. When needed, criticize ideas, not people.
• Keep a common-sense safety mindset when planning or participating in physical activities. Do not create dangerous situations in event spaces.
• Get board permission and provide content notes/warnings before presenting material at an event on subjects such as: sex, discriminatory language, violence, or other possible acutely traumatic topics.

Reporting

• If you are in an emergency or there is imminent danger, call 9-1-1.
• After experiencing or witnessing an incident that violates our code of conduct, as soon as possible, contact an uninvolved board member, organizer, or event host. They often wear green lanyards.
  • You may also use this online form or email board@sundayassemblyatlanta.org.
• One or more uninvolved leaders will find a private space to listen to your description of what happened. You won’t be asked to confront anyone, and we won’t identify you.
• Your report will be taken seriously. Responses to violations can range from a conversation with an organizer to expulsion from the community, with many degrees of nuance and options between.

Grievance

• If you feel you are falsely or unfairly accused of violating this code of conduct, contact a board member with an explanation. The board will provide due consideration and fairness.