Code of Conduct
At Oakville Improv Theatre Company, we are dedicated to creating a safe, fun, friendly, accessible, inclusive and respectful space where improvisers and improv community members can play, free from all forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying and violence.
We believe that every improvisor, student, audience member, employee and volunteer should expect the following:
- An environment that encourages the creative process and freedom to explore and play, provides transparent communication, and promotes mutual respect from everyone involved
- A space free from harassment, discrimination, bullying and violence in all forms, whether it be at an informal jam session, a workshop, a class, or a show
- When harassment, discrimination or violence takes place, they are empowered to speak out, report abuses in good faith, and expect thorough, timely investigations and appropriate corrective measures
- That those they play with recognize the personal and physical boundaries of others (we adhere to Fair Play’s Boundaries Conversations Guidelines-Link: Boundries Conversation Guidelines (wordpress.com) )
- That they will never have to be alone with individuals who make them uncomfortable or who threaten their safety
- That they will never be forced to perform in environments in which they may feel uncomfortable or at personal risk, such as but not limited to private hotel rooms, vehicles, or homes.
- That if improvisors are playing a person different from themselves, it will be done with care, sensitivity, dignity and respect or not at all. Improvisers should avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes. Such situations may include, but are not limited to Protected Grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code:
- Race
- Colour
- Creed (religion)
- Place of Origin
- Ethnic Origin
- Citizenship
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity, gender expression
- Age
- Martial Status
- Family Status
- Disability (including mental, physical, developmental or learning disabilities)
- When scenes involve physical contact, the contact is consensual, and they will be able to speak out against any touch to which they do not consent. Teachers will immediately step in, or course correct.
- That in any situation, whether it be a class, a workshop or a show, safety and integrity are more important than “Yes, and”.
In support of these values and expectations, we commit to:
- Enact policies and procedures that maintain zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, bullying and violence
- Ensure that this Code of Conduct, appropriate policies and procedures are re-evaluated annually prior to the AGM and is attached to registrations, memberships and teacher’s contracts by “click wrap”.
- Provide artists, cultural workers, volunteers, and employees with definitions of harassment, including but not limited to sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying, and violence
- Post Code of Conduct prominently on Oakville Improv Theatre Company website
- Ensure that the Code of Conduct, and all anti-harassment policies and procedures apply to all individuals who conduct volunteer or paid work on the company’s behalf.
- Ensure that these policies apply in any environment where company work is being conducted, including but not limited to auditions, rehearsals, meetings, company functions, fundraising events, off-site performances and tours, and work-related conferences and training sessions
- Receive any reports of incidents of harassment, discrimination, bullying or violence in good faith, and provide a thorough investigation in a timely manner (See our Anti-Violence, Anti-Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policy and Anonymous Reporting pages)
- Ensure that those who will be implementing these policies and procedures are fully trained and supported throughout the process.
- Ensure that Retaliation or reprisals are prohibited against any individual who has complained or has provided information regarding a complaint under this Code of Conduct.