OWC Code of Values
The OWC is a respectful community
As the OWC grows, it’s important that we all understand what is expected of members at events, offline and online. A Code of Values goes beyond a Code of Conduct which outlines how members are to behave. A Code of Values outlines what the OWC stands for and what we expect our members to believe in. Therefore, it serves as a set of universal guidelines by which all members must agree to adhere.
At the Ottawa Writer’s Circle, we value:
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Our focus on building a writing community
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Respect for people,
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Listening and learning,
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Openness, and
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Kindness and empathy.
This means:
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Focusing conversations and events on writing-related topics
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Treating people like we would like to be treated
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Never say anything about anyone you wouldn’t say to them
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Listening with the intent to understand and acknowledging it is important to the speaker
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Learning when a behaviour is welcome and unwelcome
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Not using poor social grace as an excuse to consistently make people uncomfortable
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Being understanding when someone is new or shy without being forceful
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Bringing forward any concerns to the Leadership Team
Additionally, several rules from our Code of Conduct still apply:
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There is zero tolerance for harassment
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Do not physically touch someone without their permission
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Do not hit on or ask anyone out through OWC events, including online
The Leadership Team reserves the right to ask any member to leave an event or ban a member from the group if they deem them to have violated this Code in any way.