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Code of Conduct

All ASIS&T members agree to adhere to the following:

Statement of intent

The Association for Information Science & Technology is committed to fostering an open, inclusive, and collaborative environment. ASIS&T and its members uphold a commitment to zero tolerance for harassment in any form.

This is a dynamic document that is subject to regular review with annual assessments and updates as needed. It aims to create an inclusive and respectful community for all members.

Purpose

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to establish a culture of professionalism, courtesy, respect, inclusivity, and ethical behavior in all in-person and online interactions among ASIS&T participants. Each member is accountable for their conduct within the ASIS&T community.

Principles of Professional Behavior

This Code of Conduct is premised on the expectation that all ASIS&T members will abide by these principles of professional behavior:

Respect for All: All members are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or socioeconomic background. Discrimination, harassment, and all forms of intolerance are absolutely prohibited.

Valuing Differences: We should recognize and appreciate the unique qualities that each person brings to the table. When we embrace diversity, it enriches our communities and enhances creativity and innovation. It’s important to celebrate differences rather than view them as barriers.

Open-mindedness: Approach conversations with an open mind, willing to consider new ideas and perspectives. This encourages individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Non-discrimination: Respect for all means treating everyone fairly and equitably, regardless of their identity or beliefs.

Constructive Feedback: Providing feedback respectfully is essential for personal and professional growth. Constructive criticism should focus on behaviors or actions rather than personal attributes, allowing individuals to learn without feeling attacked or devalued.

Conflict Resolution: Members should approach disagreements with a mindset of resolution rather than confrontation.

Foster dynamic discussions and engage in respectful dialogue. Be open to critique and offer it constructively. Approach discussions with an open mind and be receptive to learning. Remember, thousands may view your posts, and they may remain online indefinitely, potentially seen by colleagues, employers, and patrons.

Respect intellectual property and provide appropriate credit. Users must obtain permission for any non-original content they share in the ASIS&T community. Include copyright notices when necessary, inquire about creator information when it's unknown, and be ready to provide credits if identified after posting.

Respect others' preferred form of address. Community members' pronouns are often visible in their profile or signature. Please use preferred names, pronouns, and forms of address. Consider using gender-neutral collective nouns/pronouns when addressing groups, such as "everyone".

Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of cultural differences and strive to create an inclusive environment for all members.

Rules

Harassment is strictly prohibited and encompasses any form of demeaning , disparaging, or disrespectful comments, non-verbal expressions, or imagery targeting individuals or groups based on these characteristics:

  • Race, ethnicity, or native language
  • Sex, gender, gender identity, or gender expression
  • Primary language
  • Sexual orientation
  • Physical or mental disability
  • Physical appearance, body size, or presentation
  • Age
  • Religious or political beliefs, including the absence of religious beliefs
  • Marital or family status
  • Nationality, citizenship status, or geographic location
  • Employment or military status
  • Socioeconomic status

Any communication or behavior featuring sexual, violent, or discriminatory content are strictly prohibited.

Intimidation, stalking, sustained disruption, inappropriate physical or virtual contact, or unwelcome attention, including sexual attention, will not be tolerated.

Where to go for help

If you think you have seen or experienced activity that violates the letter or the spirit of this Code of Conduct, please alert our moderators:

  • Click here to report a violation: Reporting Form
  • Email to report a violation: ombudsman@asist.org

Anonymous reports are permitted although they may limit the ability to address conflicts fully and may hinder follow-up. The moderators will acknowledge all reports as promptly as possible, generally within the next business day.

Reporting and Arbitration Process

Reports of violation of the Code of Conduct will be directed to the Ombudsman who will be a member of the ASIS&T Board appointed annually by the President. The Ombudsman will contact both parties in an incident, the member reporting the incident and the reported perpetrator of the violation, to gather additional information and both perspectives on the incident. The Ombudsman will then determine the appropriate course of action. Posted content violating the Code of Conduct may be deleted, and in severe cases, violators may face temporary membership suspension before a decision on the incident. Meeting attendees violating the Code of Conduct may be removed from the meeting. The gravity of the offense will dictate consequences, that range from discussing the topic at hand to full termination of membership or restriction of meeting access. The Code of Conduct will be applied fairly with ample opportunity for both parties to express their perspectives. The Ombudsman will prioritize context and impact when making decisions, striving for accountability and respecting the wishes of those involved. If violators receive a suspension or termination of membership, the duration will be clearly communicated in writing.

Appeal

A decision by the Ombudsman to terminate membership may be appealed in writing to the full Board of Directors. Decisions on such appeals will be made at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors.

Who the Code of Conduct covers

The Code of Conduct applies to all members of ASIS&T and attendees at ASIS&T events, both in-person and on-line.

Updates to the Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is a dynamic document intended for iterative updates, reflecting new developments in the Association. The ASIS&T Governance Committee will oversee updating the Code of Conduct.

Changes to the Code of Conduct will be communicated via email to all ASIS&T members.

Acknowledgements

This Code of Conduct has been adapted from ALA Online Code of Conduct.

Approved by the ASIS&T Board of Directors, January 27, 2025