Wikimedia Community Ireland Safe Space Policy

Purpose

At Wikimedia Community Ireland (WCI), we are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful community that values diversity and promotes a safe and supportive environment for all participants. Continuous mutual respect and civil conduct are essential elements of a thriving community. This Safe Space Policy outlines our commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere for Wikimedians, members of WCI, our partners, and all individuals attending or participating in our events and campaigns.

These activities ensure that everyone can participate without the fear of harassment or prejudice in all WCI activities and events, and are reviewed to remain aligned with the policies of the Wikimedia Foundation.

Principles

1. Universal Code of Conduct (UCOC)

WCI will prominently display and draw attention to the Universal Code of Conduct in all physical and virtual spaces used for events. This code serves as a foundation for our community's values and expectations.

2. Harassment Awareness

We are continually dedicated to raising awareness about the issue of harassment within our community. All participants will be informed about how to report any violations, ensuring that everyone can contribute without fear of harassment or prejudice.

3. Prohibited Behaviour

Wikimedia Community Ireland (WCI) is committed to maintaining an environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, and abusive behavior. Actions that violate the principles of respect and inclusivity within our community will not be tolerated.

Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

• Discriminatory Speech

Any offensive verbal comments related to age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, physical appearance, race, ethnicity, political affiliation, or religion are strictly prohibited.

• Threatening Behavior

Deliberate intimidation, stalking, unwelcome following, inappropriate photography/filming, unwelcome or violent physical contact, sustained disruption of talks or other events, or any other verbal or physical conduct intended to threaten, coerce, or intimidate is strictly prohibited.

• Conduct of a Sexual Nature

Unwelcome sexual attention or advances, suggestive comments or gestures, inappropriate requests for sexual favors, or any other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature is prohibited.

• Graphic Content

Display of inappropriate sexual content and imagery, or content that is otherwise offensive or distressing without adequate prior warning, is prohibited.

• Disruption of Talks, Programs, or Events

Any actions that disrupt talks, programs, or events, including sustained and intentional disruptions, are prohibited.

• Intrusion into Private Lives

Persistent intrusion into the private lives of those who choose to participate, support, or be associated with Wikimedia Ireland activities is prohibited. Attempts to discover undisclosed personal identifying information, the identity of familial relations, alternate associations (personal or professional), or sharing of undisclosed identifying information without the consent of the individual, to persons other than the designated point of contact is prohibited.

• Disruptive Behavior

Any participant or associated individuals are expected to behave responsibly and comply with the rules of the jurisdiction of the event. Individuals witnessed conducting themself in an anti-social manner, without full awareness of their actions, or damaging property should be reported immediately.

4. Reporting Incidents

If you witness or experience any behavior that violates this Safe Space Policy, please report it immediately to the designated point of contact, which will be communicated at each event or campaign. Reports will be treated with confidentiality, and appropriate actions will be taken to address and resolve the situation.

Participants are encouraged to speak up against violations of this zero-tolerance policy to collectively ensure the safety and well-being of our community members. Wikimedia Community Ireland is dedicated to upholding these standards and fostering a culture of mutual respect and inclusivity.

5. Collaboration with Partners

WCI will collaborate with all partners to ensure that policies and procedures align with the Universal Code of Conduct and Friendly Space Policy. This collaboration emphasizes the shared responsibility of maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.

6. Legal Compliance

In the case of incidents that are serious and illegal, WCI will report to and work with the local police force. For other incidents, we will collaborate with our partners to appropriately address and respond to the situation, always prioritizing the well-being of our community members. Where you have provided WCI with your personal data you have a right to be given a copy of your personal data subject to certain exceptions. To exercise your rights in respect of your personal data please inquire with the designated point of contact.

7. Continuous Improvement

WCI is committed to actively reviewing our practices and updating them based on ongoing learning and improved equity approaches. This includes incorporating feedback from the community, assessing the effectiveness of our policies, and adapting to the evolving needs of our diverse community.

Implementation

By participating in WCI activities and events, you are agreeing to adhere to this Safe Space Policy and contribute to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for all. Together, we can build a community that reflects the values of the Wikimedia Foundation and ensures the well-being of all its members.