Code of Conduct

1. Purpose

DataConf Technical Data Conference is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. We value diversity and inclusivity and strive to create an environment where all participants can engage in meaningful and respectful interactions.

2. Expected Behavior

All attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and organizers at DataConf are required to:
2.1. Be respectful and considerate of others, including different backgrounds, perspectives, and opinions.
2.2. Refrain from engaging in any form of harassment, intimidation, or discrimination, whether verbal, physical, or electronic, towards any participant.
2.3. Respect the privacy and personal boundaries of others.
2.4. Refrain from using offensive, demeaning, or exclusionary language or imagery during conference events, talks, and interactions.
2.5. Be mindful of the diversity of the audience when expressing ideas or opinions.
2.6. Follow the guidelines and instructions of conference staff and volunteers.

3. Unacceptable Behaviour

Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to:
3.1. Harassment, including offensive verbal comments, deliberate intimidation, stalking, or sustained disruption of talks or other events.
3.2. Discrimination or exclusion based on any of the protected characteristics mentioned in section 1.
3.3. Unwanted physical contact or attention.
3.4. Sharing or displaying sexually explicit or violent material.
3.5. Deliberate disruption or interference with conference activities.
3.6. Advocating or encouraging any of the above behaviors.

4. Reporting Procedure

If you witness or experience any violations of this code of conduct, please report it immediately to any member of the conference staff or volunteers. Reports can be made in person or via email (provide relevant contact information). All reports will be treated with confidentiality and will be thoroughly investigated.

5. Consequences

Participants found to be in violation of this code of conduct may be subject to appropriate actions as decided by the conference organisers, including but not limited to warning, temporary or permanent ban from the conference without refund.

6. Reporting Guidelines

If you are subject to or witness unacceptable behavior, or have any other concerns, please notify a conference organiser as soon as possible. info@dataconf.co.za. Additionally, conference organisers are available to help community members engage with local law enforcement or to otherwise help those experiencing unacceptable behavior feel safe. In the context of in-person events, organisers will also provide escorts as desired by the person experiencing distress.

7. Addressing Grievances

If you feel you have been falsely or unfairly accused of violating this Code of Conduct, you should notify the conference organisers with a concise description of your grievance. Your grievance will be handled in accordance with our existing governing policies.

8. Scope

We expect all conference participants (contributors, paid or otherwise; sponsors; and other guests) to abide by this Code of Conduct in all conference venues--online and in-person--as well as in all one-on-one communications pertaining to conference business. This code of conduct and its related procedures also applies to unacceptable behavior occurring outside the scope of conference activities when such behavior has the potential to adversely affect the safety and well-being of conference participants.

9. Contact Info

The conference organisers can be reached at info@dataconf.co.za . See our home page for further contact information.

10. Acknowledgment

By participating in DataConf, you are expected to comply with this code of conduct. Organizers reserve the right to update or modify this code of conduct to ensure its effectiveness. Remember, we are all here to learn, share, and collaborate. Let's make DataConf an enjoyable and inclusive experience for everyone.