PDG Conferences Anti-Harassment Policy

Harassment includes, but is not limited to:

·         Verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination [related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual  
          orientation, disability, ethnicity, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion,.

·         Sexual images in public spaces

·         Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following

·         Harassing photography or recording

·         Sustained disruption of talks or other events

·         Inappropriate physical contact

·         Unwelcome sexual attention

·         Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior

Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately

Exhibitors in the expo hall, sponsor or vendor booths, or similar activities are also subject to the anti-harassment policy. In particular, exhibitors should not use sexualized images, activities, or other material. Booth staff (including volunteers) should not use sexualized clothing/uniforms/costumes, or otherwise create a sexualized environment.

If a participant engages in harassing behavior, event organizers retain the right to take any actions to keep the event a welcoming environment for all participants. This includes warning the offender or expulsion from the conference [with no refund]. This policy applies to event times and evening after hours events in bars, restaurants and social meeting areas where conference attendees meet.

Event organisers may take action to redress anything designed to, or with the clear impact of, disrupting the event or making the environment hostile for any participants.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all event venues and event-related social activities. Event participants will follow these rules outside event activities too!

If someone makes you or anyone else feel unsafe or unwelcome, please report it as soon as possible. [Conference staff can be identified by t-shirts/special badges. Harassment and other code of conduct violations reduce the value of our event for everyone. We want you to be happy at our event. People like you make our event a better place. You can make a report either personally or anonymously. We can't follow up an anonymous report with you directly, but we will fully investigate it and take whatever action is necessary to prevent a recurrence.

You can make a personal report by:

Calling or messaging this phone number: 812-339-6374. This phone number will be continuously monitored for the duration of the event.

Contacting a staff member, identified by STAFF badges, buttons, or shirts.

When taking a personal report, our staff will ensure you are safe and cannot be overheard. They may involve other event staff to ensure your report is managed properly. Once safe, we'll ask you to tell us about what happened. This can be upsetting, but we'll handle it as respectfully as possible, and you can bring someone to support you. You won't be asked to confront anyone and we won't tell anyone who you are.

Our team will be happy to help you contact hotel/venue security, local law enforcement, local support services, provide escorts, or otherwise assist you to feel safe for the duration of the event. We value your attendance.