safer space policy

We decided to have a safer space policy for respectfulness and beneficial behavior.  So we found an example and changed things to suit our collective.  Then we read it together, and more changes were suggested, then made.  Please read it and make sure you agree.

Las Vegas Radical Mental Health Collective–Safer Space Policy

LVRMHC strives to be an accessible and safer space for all attendees, organizers, and volunteers and for everyone to feel comfortable and safe with any race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, physicalities, disabilities, and marital status.

LVRMHC participants agree to maintain a safer space by following these guidelines:

– Respect physical and emotional boundaries

– Respect differing opinions, beliefs, and perspectives

– Always get explicit consent before physically touching another person, taking their photo, or crossing other personal boundaries

– Be aware that the original intent of your actions and words is not always how they will be received, and respect those you are engaging. Be willing to adjust your behavior to promote a safer space.

– Please have openness to dialog.  It’s okay to make an honest mistake, but not to insist and create a persistent problem.

The following actions will not be tolerated:

– Racism, sexism, ableism, classism, transphobia, homophobia, religious intolerance, ageism, sizeism, shame or negative judgment based on physical appearance, and all other forms of discrimination

– Theft of money and property

– Physical, verbal, mental, or other forms of abuse

– Sexual harassment, inappropriate/unwelcome comments or behavior

– Disruptive or disrespectful behavior

– Causing a participant  to feel unsafe

– Misgendering will not be tolerated. No one should be questioned for what bathroom they are entering, using the facilities in, or exiting.

If you don’t follow these rules, you can be asked to leave.

Should you find a participant’s behaviors oppressive or in violation of the safer space guidelines, LVRMHC organizers encourage and invite you to reach out to us. We will respect the needs of any person voicing concern about problematic behaviors and address it with all parties involved.

LVRMHC supports survivors and is willing to make special provisions before or during events for any individuals wishing to do so.

Should an issue arise between participants before or during any of our events, LVRMHC organizers will be available to address the needs of any individuals and help mediate any situation that comes up as part of our safer space guidelines.

If you have any feedback, requests, or ideas to make our events or safer space policy even safer, please reach out.