Statement of Appropriate Conduct
The Maine Library Association (MLA) hosts the annual conference, events, and other meetings to provide members opportunities for professional development, networking, and discovery of new products and library services. To provide all participants – MLA members, speakers, exhibitors, staff, volunteers, and other attendees – the opportunity to benefit from an event, MLA is committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, religion, or other group identity.
Conference participants seek to learn, network and have some fun!
Please do so responsibly and with respect for the right of others to do likewise.
MLA aims to create a conference environment where diverse participants can learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues with mutual respect. We all share the responsibility to uphold this environment for everyone's benefit. Hence, certain behaviors are strictly prohibited:
MLA is strongly committed to diversity, equity, and the free expression of ideas. To that end:
Harassment or intimidation based on race, religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, appearance, or other group status.
Sexual harassment or intimidation, including unwelcome sexual attention, stalking (physical or virtual), or unsolicited physical contact.
Yelling at or threatening speakers or other attendees (verbally or physically).
Participants asked to stop a hostile or harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.
- Participants may express opinions by “voting with their feet” and leaving any session they find objectionable.
- Speakers are asked to frame discussions as openly and inclusively as possible and to be aware of how language or images may be perceived by others.
- Critical examination of beliefs and viewpoints does not, by itself, constitute hostile conduct or harassment. Similarly, use of sexual imagery or language in the context of a professional discussion might not constitute hostile conduct or harassment.
Taken together, these values emphasize civil discourse and the free exchange of ideas, respecting the rights, dignity, and value of all individuals.
If you believe you've been harassed or notice a harassment problem, contact the MLA President or other Executive Board member. Reports will be promptly directed to the President for action, potentially involving other board members and legal counsel. Event security or local law enforcement may be involved as necessary. Those reporting harassment will receive a follow-up report.
This statement is modified from the ALA Statement of Appropriate Conduct.
Reviewed: 09-02-2018