Code of Conduct

Windsor Hackforge (“Hackforge”), through its Tourism Innovation Lab and “Spark” Programs, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive community where all individuals, regardless of ability, age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, skill level, race, religion, or any other characteristic or membership in a particular group in society, are welcomed and respected.

Our aim is to create a fun and friendly environment of mutual respect, tolerance, and encouragement to advance learning, discussion and engagement in technology, community and economic development programs and opportunities.

All participants engaging with Hackforge, whether in-person or online, are expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct. This applies to all physical and online meetings, events, communication channels, and interactions associated with the organization.
Principles:

1. Open To All: Hackforge is open to all individuals, skill levels and backgrounds. We strive to offer a welcoming, inclusive and positive learning environment where participants who are new to a skill, technology, sector or concept can work side-by-side with program organizers, volunteers, advisors or mentors with advanced skills, expertise and experience in a mutually supportive and respectful manner.
2. Respectful Behavior: We expect all participants to engage with one another in a respectful, positive and friendly manner. Insults, derogatory remarks, or any form of discriminatory behavior are not tolerated.
3. Mindful Conduct: Participants should be mindful of their words and actions, understanding that jokes or remarks that are sexist, racist, homophobic or otherwise exclusionary can be hurtful and offensive to others. Such behavior is not acceptable within Hackforge.
4. Harassment Policy: Harassment in any form will not be tolerated. This includes offensive comments related to ability, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical appearance, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, as well as any form of intimidation, stalking, unwelcome photography or recording, disruption of activities, inappropriate physical and online contact, or sexual attention. Participants are expected to immediately cease any behaviour upon request.

Reporting Procedure:

1. Reporting Incidents: If any participant witnesses or experiences behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, they should promptly contact a Hackforge board member, employee, community monitors or lead event organizer. That person shall then immediately inform the Hackforge Board chair or Managing Director to determine what action should be taken. All complaints will be handled confidentially, taken seriously, and responded to appropriately which may involve immediate action and/or an investigation.
2. Action Taken: Upon receiving a complaint and depending on the severity and nature of the incident, the following actions may be taken:
   • The alleged offender may be requested to modify their behavior.
   • An incident report form will be completed and kept on file for up to 12 months.
   • If the inappropriate behavior persists, the individual may be asked to leave the premises or will be removed from the virtual space immediately and/or be barred from participating in future Hackforge community events or programs.
   • In extreme cases, incidents may be reported to the appropriate authorities.

General Provisions:

1. Inclusive Application: This Code of Conduct applies to all individuals associated with Hackforge, including Board members, employees, advisors, contractors, volunteers, affiliates, and participants, regardless of their role or capacity.
2. Communication: This Code of Conduct shall be made available on Hackforge’s website and linked to from any related program, event listing, or program and event coordination manual.
3. Confidentiality Obligations: Board members, employees, advisors, contractors, volunteers, and affiliates of Hackforge are bound by obligations of confidentiality regarding organizational matters and program participant information, unless given explicit permission otherwise.

Hackforge is committed to upholding these principles to ensure a safe, welcoming, and productive environment for all participants. Together, we strive to maintain a community that values diversity, respect, and mutual support.
​
Hackforge is guided by the Ontario Human Rights Code, and may, in its sole discretion, modify or update this Code of Conduct from time to time. Participation in Hackforge programs and events after any such change constitutes your acceptance of the new Code of Conduct.

By participating in any Hackforge programs or events, in-person or online, you agree to adhere to the above Code of Conduct.