BESLA’s mission is to advance the excellence of professionals in the entertainment, sports and related industries. Accordingly, BESLA expects all members and participants at the Annual Conference and any regional events, including any sponsors, volunteers, speakers and attendees, to conduct themselves professionally at all times, including at event-related social activities, at off-site locations, and in any related social media posts.   BESLA expects that its members and event participants will: (i) be considerate and respectful to others; (ii) be mindful of your words and actions; and (iii) speak up if they observe anything at an event that violates this Code of Conduct.  

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR Unacceptable behavior from any BESLA member or event participant will not be tolerated. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to: Intimidating, harassing, abusive, derogatory, or demeaning speech, materials, or conduct at any BESLA event or related activities.  Violence, threats of violence, or violent language directed against another person. Sexist, racist, sexual orientation, transphobic, or otherwise discriminatory jokes, language or behavior. Taking and/or posting on social media inappropriate or unauthorized photos or videos. Any boisterous, lewd, or offensive behavior or language, including but not limited to using sexually explicit or offensive language or conduct, or any language, behavior, or content that contains profanity, obscene gestures, or racial, religious, or ethnic slurs. Failure to obey any rules or regulations of any event venue. 

CONSEQUENCES OF UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR If a BESLA member or event participant engages in unacceptable behavior, BESLA leadership may take any action it deems appropriate, including warning or expelling the offender from the event with no refund.  Anyone asked to stop unacceptable behavior is expected to comply immediately.  For more egregious behavior, BESLA leadership may, in its reasonable discretion, temporarily or permanently bar a participant from future BESLA events or from membership in the organization. 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU WITNESS OR ARE SUBJECTED TO UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR If you are being harassed or feel uncomfortable, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns regarding potentially unacceptable behavior at a BESLA event, please contact a member of the BESLA Board immediately.  All reports will remain completely confidential.