Don't be an Arse!
Seriously. Respect your fellow fans and be nice.
We want FunCon to be a fun, relaxed, and exciting con, and most importantly for everyone to enjoy themselves. Don't let your idea of enjoyment ruin someone else's convention.
The code of conduct is for everyone, and the committee will enforce it.
Everyone should feel welcome and harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
No means No
If someone tells you “No”, or asks you to leave them alone, then do so. Apologise and walk away gracefully. Don't be pushy, don't argue; simply accept you are in danger of crossing a boundary (or may have already done so) even if you do not understand why.
Related to the above point, there is often significant consumption of alcohol at a convention and, combined with a large number of people having fun and the close proximity of bedrooms, can lead to somewhat more adult and private entertainment taking place. The committee would therefore like to draw your attention to the following video on consent: https://youtu.be/pZwvrxVavnQ
Harassment or Discrimination will not be tolerated
Discrimination or prejudiced behaviour (including with regard to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or physical/mental disability) is not acceptable and the committee will take such behaviour very seriously.
If you feel that you are being harassed or subjected to prejudiced or unwelcome behaviour, or if you notice someone behaving inappropriately (such as violating hotel or convention policies), we respectfully suggest the following;
- If you feel comfortable doing so, point out the inappropriate behaviour to the person(s) involved. Often this will solve the problem immediately. Please then inform a committee member so that any pattern of poor behaviour from an individual can be monitored.
- If you do not feel comfortable talking with the person(s) involved or if talking to them does not resolve the issue, please report the situation immediately to any committee member. Try to provide a name, badge name/number and/or physical description of the person(s) involved.
We have a private room where designated members of the team will be allocated to listen and respond to your concerns. Our priority is to provide the maximum support for anyone who has had a negative encounter, as we recognise that harassment and/or discrimination is a deeply unpleasant experience.
Actions have Consequences
If the Code of Conduct is breached, FunCon can, and will, take action.
These actions may include (but are not limited to): talking with all parties involved and attempting to mediate a solution; issuing verbal warnings; revoking memberships and requiring that the person(s) leave the event; involving hotel staff or security; and/or reporting the matter to local police.
FunCon reserves the right to revoke membership and to eject anyone at any time from the convention without a refund.
Don't be an arse, and there won't be a problem....
Attendees must display their badge in order to gain access to programme items and use those areas of the hotel reserved for convention attendees.
Funcons are adult events, and under-18s will not be permitted to enter convention or program spaces.
If you are taking photos, please be polite and ask before taking photographs or recordings of members and attendees whenever possible.
No weapon, or any item that could be mistaken for one, may be carried either openly or concealed at any time. If you have a costume that requires a prop weapon, we can facilitate that but you must inform us in advance to allow us to notify the hotel and any other necessary agency. You must present the prop to a committee meeting as soon as is feasibly possible (and definitely before you wish to wear/display it) so that it can be tagged appropriately.
Committee and volunteers will adhere to this code of conduct while promoting FunCon elsewhere.
FunCon reserves the right to amend these rules at any time without prior or posted notice and reserves the sole right of interpretation of what being an arse is.
Please keep in mind that these rules involve, of course, “worst-case” scenarios and are put in place to ensure the safety and comfort of our members. They are not all encompassing, but the fundamental point is:
Any action or behaviour that that causes significant interference with convention operations or excessive discomfort to other attendees is strictly forbidden and may result in revocation of membership and/or attendance privileges
Finally, have a great time and, once again, DON'T BE AN ARSE!