The Copyright Society Code of Conduct Purpose The Copyright Society (the “Society”) is committed to fostering a professional, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members, volunteers, speakers, and participants within the Society and its activities. This Code of Conduct sets forth the standards that guide participation in Society events, programs, committees, and communications. Applicability This Code of Conduct applies to all Society members, officers, trustees, committee members, speakers, volunteers, staff, and guests while participating in Society activities, whether in person, virtual, or in writing, including meetings, conferences, publications, online forums, and social events. Standards of Conduct As a participant in Society activities, you agree to: Treat others with dignity and respect. Engage courteously and professionally with all individuals, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or political belief. Foster an inclusive environment. Welcome diverse perspectives and encourage open discussion by all participants in Society activities. Maintain professional integrity. Act honestly, ethically, and in good faith in all Society-related interactions. Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any that may arise. Respect intellectual contributions. Properly acknowledge the work and ideas of others. Uphold the principles of intellectual property that are central to the Society’s mission. Communicate constructively. Engage in discussions and debates in a manner that is civil, substantive, and aimed at advancing the Society’s educational and scholarly purposes. Disagreements on legal or policy matters should remain respectful and focused on the issues. Not engage in prohibited conduct. Not engage in conduct that is harassing, intimidating, threatening, or discriminatory toward any individual or group. Follow the Rules. Abide by the rules and regulations for Society activities and materials, including confidentiality requirements, rules applicable to physical and online events as well as limitations on use of recording devices and distribution of Society materials. Prohibited Conduct As a participant in Society activities, you agree that you will not engage in the following conduct: Harassment, including unwelcome comments, slurs, jokes, or physical conduct directed at any individual or group based on a protected characteristic. Intimidation, bullying, stalking, or sustained disruption of events or discussions. Unwelcome sexual attention or advances. Retaliation against any individual who reports a violation of this Code of Conduct or participates in an investigation. Reporting and Enforcement The Society takes a violation of this Code of Conduct very seriously. Any individual who experiences or witnesses conduct inconsistent with this Code of Conduct is encouraged to report it to a member of the Executive Committee. Reports must be made in writing and will be treated with discretion and confidentiality to the extent possible, but the Society cannot guarantee complete confidentiality in connection with investigating the veracity of alleged violations. The Executive Committee will review all reports and, where it reasonably believes that this Code of Conduct has been violated, take action at its reasonable discretion to address such violation, including, but not limited to, the following: A private conversation or advisory notice to cease or remediate the violation Removal from a committee or leadership role Expulsion from an event, with or without refund Suspension or revocation of membership, with or without refund Exclusion from future Society events Acknowledgment By participating in Society activities, including through renewal of membership, participation in events, or otherwise, you agree to be bound by and comply with this Code of Conduct.
