Welcome to Cybersecurity First Friday! We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants, where everyone feels comfortable networking, sharing ideas, and learning. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behavior at our event and the ramifications for non-compliance.
By registering or attending Cybersecurity First Friday, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.
1. Expected Behavior
We expect all participants to:
- Be Respectful and Considerate: Treat all attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and staff with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. Engage in constructive dialogue and be mindful of differing perspectives.
- Be Inclusive: Foster an environment that is welcoming to people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, and socio-economic status.
- Maintain Professionalism: Conduct yourselves ethically and professionally at all times. This includes interactions, dress code (business casual is encouraged), and language.
- Report Concerns: If you witness or experience behavior that you believe violates this Code of
- Conduct, please report it immediately to an event organizer or designated staff member. Your concerns will be taken seriously and handled discreetly.
- Drink Responsibly (if consuming alcohol): As alcohol may be served, we encourage responsible consumption. Please be aware of your limits and ensure your behavior remains respectful and professional. Do not engage in any behavior that could compromise your safety or the safety of others.
2. Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Our goal is to ensure everyone feels safe, secure and valued. This means:
- Zero Tolerance for Harassment: We have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment, discrimination, or intimidation.
- Consent and Boundaries: Respect personal space and boundaries. Do not engage in unwelcome physical contact or attention.
- Privacy: Respect the privacy of others. Do not photograph or record individuals without their explicit consent. Note: Event staff may take photos during the event for marketing purposes only.
- Professional Networking: Focus on professional networking and engaging in discussions relevant to the event.
3. Unacceptable Behavior
The following behaviors are considered unacceptable and will not be tolerated:
- Harassment: Offensive verbal comments, threats, intimidation, stalking, unwelcome sexual attention, or physical assault.
- Discrimination: Any form of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or any other protected characteristic.
- Bullying: Repeated aggressive or unreasonable behavior intended to hurt or intimidate someone, whether verbally, socially, or psychologically. This includes targeting individuals with negative comments, exclusion, or ridicule.
- Spreading Rumors or Defamation: Disseminating false or unverified information about individuals or organizations that could harm their reputation or well-being. This includes gossip and malicious falsehoods and misinformation, malinformation or disinformation.
- Disruption: Repeatedly interrupting presentations, conversations, or other event activities.
- Inappropriate Language or Imagery: Use of offensive, derogatory, or sexually suggestive language, images, or gestures.
- Excessive Intoxication: Behavior that is disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe due to excessive alcohol consumption. Note: Only two alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages are allowed to be consumed at the CFF event and are controlled by staff.
- Theft or Damage: Stealing property or intentionally damaging the venue or another participant's belongings.
- Violation of Laws: Any activity that is illegal under local, state, or federal law.
4. Ramifications for Non-Compliance
Any participant found to be in violation of this Code of Conduct may face immediate consequences,
including but not limited to:
- Verbal Warning: A private discussion with an event organizer regarding unacceptable behavior.
- Removal from the Event: Being asked to leave the event immediately.
- Banning from Future Events: Prohibition from attending future Cybersecurity First Friday events.
- Reporting to Authorities: In cases of severe violations (e.g., assault, illegal activities), appropriate authorities may be notified.
The event organizers reserve the right to determine what constitutes unacceptable behavior and the appropriate consequences. Our decisions are final.
5. Reporting and Contact
If you experience or witness a violation of this Code of Conduct, please contact an event organizer immediately. We will treat all reports with confidentiality and act swiftly to address the situation.
Thank you for helping us create a positive and productive environment for Cybersecurity First Friday!
