These guidelines for safer spaces for Futures Conferences were created to make the event as safe as possible for all participants.
We understand that it is unlikely, especially in public facilities and events, that all spaces can be made fully safe for everyone. With this in mind, we encourage all the participants to actively create an atmosphere where we prioritise one another’s safety and wellbeing. Let’s look after one another.
Guidelines
- Respect everyone’s personal space, both physical and mental. You cannot know where another person’s boundaries lie without asking them. Make sure you ask before touching anyone. Listen to others and adapt your behaviour if someone indicates that your behaviour makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Respect everyone, don’t assume things. Don’t make assumptions about other people’s sexuality, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, values, socio-economic background, ability or health. Respect pronouns and names. Be aware of your own privileges.
- No body discrimination. Don’t comment on another person’s body.
- Respect the opinions, beliefs, experiences and differing viewpoints of others. Don’t mock, ridicule, disparage, sideline or humiliate anyone with your words, behaviour or actions.
- Assume responsibility for your own actions and behaviour. Remember that your actions affect other people, regardless of your good intentions.
- Give space. Do your best to ensure that everyone gets to participate in discussions. Don’t disregard other people’s opinions; give others the chance to speak. Respect the privacy of others and treat sensitive topics respectfully.
- Intervene in harassment if you witness it, and ask the person who was harassed whether they would like help or support. Don’t just remain an on-looker.
If you experience harassment
If you experience inappropriate behaviour, harassment or any other form of inappropriate treatment at the event, please report or contact the Futures Conference staff in the Info desk of the conference or send email to futuresconference@utu.fi, during or after the event. The Staff offer help and support in any case of harassment.
If the situation cannot be resolved, the person behaving inappropriately will be removed from the space as discreetly and unnoticeably as possible.