FCAA Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct
The First Coast Apartment Association (FCAA) is committed to diversity, equality, and providing a safe and productive meeting environment that fosters networking, education and advocacy that is free of harassment, discrimination and hostile conduct. FCAA promotes equal opportunities and treatment for all participants, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, physical or mental ability, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or nationality. All participants are expected to treat others with respect and consideration, follow venue rules and alert staff or security of any dangerous situations or anyone in distress.
What is Harassment?
Harassment includes speech, gestures or behavior that is not welcome or is personally offensive, whether it is based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, physical or mental ability, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or nationality. It includes deliberate intimidation, stalking, unwelcome attention, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate/unnecessary physical contact and unprofessional use of nudity and/or sexual images in public spaces or in presentations. Behavior that is acceptable to one person may not be acceptable to another, so use discretion to be sure that respect is communicated. Harassment intended in a joking manner still constitutes unacceptable behavior.
The policies herein apply to all attendees, speakers, exhibitors, staff, contractors, volunteers, and guests at all FCAA meetings and related events, including off-site social events and online venues. FCAA prohibits any form of harassment, sexual or otherwise.
Reporting
Any individual who believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment should contact the FCAA Executive Vice President ([email protected] or 904-292-1345) or other FCAA Staff ([email protected]) or use a venue phone and ask for security if they feel unsafe. It is recommended that, in addition to notifying FCAA staff, they write down the details, as they may be asked to fill out a report. They are not expected to discuss the incident with the offending party. All complaints will be treated seriously and be investigated promptly. Confidentiality will be honored to the extent permitted as long as the rights of others are not compromised.
Investigation Procedure
- If the complainant has not already filed a formal complaint, he or she will be asked to do so in writing.
- FCAA staff will discuss the details first with the individual filing the complaint, then with the alleged offender; seek counsel if the appropriate course of action is unclear; and report findings to the FCAA Executive Committee.
- FCAA will notify the individual filing the complaint regarding any action taken.
- FCAA staff who believe they have a conflict of interest will refer the complaint to the FCAA President or other Officer.
Sanctions
Individuals engaging in behavior prohibited by this policy as well as those making allegations of harassment in bad faith will be subject to sanctions that range from a verbal warning to ejection from the meeting or activity in question without refund of registration fees and the reporting of their behavior to their employer. FCAA reserves the right to prohibit attendance at future FCAA events. Participants asked to cease any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.
Retaliation
FCAA will not tolerate any form of retaliation against persons who file a complaint or assist in the investigation. Retaliation is a serious violation of this policy and, like harassment or discrimination itself, will be subject to disciplinary action.
Appeal and Questions
In the event that the individual is dissatisfied with the results of the investigation, he or she may appeal to the President of FCAA. Any questions regarding this policy should be directed to the FCAA Executive Vice President, Lindsey McClain, [email protected].