Meeting Guidelines

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• Use inclusive language.  We avoid making generalizations or using gendered phrasing such as “you guys” or “ladies and gentlemen.”

 

• We are open to giving and receiving feedback.  If someone says or does something we feel is problematic, we let them, or a board member know.  If someone informs us that we said or did something problematic, we learn from the experience.

 

• Confidentiality is imperative.  Personal stories and experiences shared with us here are private and are not for us to share with others.

 

• We make no judgments and no discrimination.  Negativity and discrimination, especially connected to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, neurodiversity, or disabilities, will not be tolerated.

 

• We assume good intentions.  When we hear someone unknowingly use outdated or problematic language, we do not jump to conclusions about their intentions.

 

• We are constantly learning and unlearning.  We accept that we may have outdated or incorrect information which others may correct, and look forward to the learning opportunities.

 

• We consider how our words can affect others. We provide a content warning to the group when we wish to discuss heavy or traumatic topics, which allows others to emotionally prepare themselves or, if necessary, to disengage from the discussion.

 

• We make space for others.  We have a limited amount of time to share together.  We consider how long or often we share and allow opportunities for others to share without interruption.

 

• We are careful about offering advice.  We avoid giving unsolicited advice to others without their consent to do so.  We ask for advice if we are open to that sort of feedback.