Framework for respectful and solidarity-based interaction
Our events bring together people with different backgrounds, life circumstances, experiences and perspectives. Our Code of Conduct serves as a framework to create a space for everyone that is based on solidarity, minimises discrimination and strives for the common good, so that everyone can feel respected, seen and valued. To ensure that everyone feels a shared sense of responsibility, the agreements refer to ‘we’.
- Together, we are striving to establish a ‘Braver Space’. This means we recognise that no space can guarantee safety or be entirely free from discrimination. We can contribute to upholding these agreements together.
- We wish to contribute to a space where racism, ableism, sexism, queerphobia, antisemitism, transphobia, classism and other forms of discrimination and harassment have no place and need not be experienced.
- We treat one another with respect. We do not dismiss anyone’s experiences of discrimination. We recognise that all life realities and life experiences are valid.
- We treat ourselves with respect. Self-care means speaking up when something happens, such as a boundary being crossed or feeling unwell. We can withdraw to a dedicated retreat room at any time during the event.
- If we feel threatened, harassed or uncomfortable, we can contact the awareness people. You can recognise them by the green ribbonon their T-shirt. They are available to talk to anyone throughout the event.
- We bear in mind that things which are normal for us as individuals may not be normal for others.
- We are aware of social power dynamics and, when engaging in dialogue, we consider whether we are speaking from a privileged or affected perspective and how much space our position occupies.
- We are mindful of using respectful language. This means we actively communicate in an inclusive, non-discriminatory and gender- sensitive manner. We also avoid other forms of discriminatory language and instead use the self-designations of marginalised groups and individuals. If we are unsure, we ask the person we are speaking to rather than making assumptions or interpretations.
- We avoid generalisations and do not draw conclusions about an entire group of people based on the behaviour of a single individual.
- We do not judge people on the basis of their physical appearance.
- We do not draw conclusions about the gender identity of the person we are speaking to based on their physical appearance. If we are unsure, we can ask the person which form of address or pronouns they prefer, thereby avoiding hurtful or discriminatory behaviour.
- We recognise that individuals' experiences of discrimination or inequality are not always visible. We take people seriously when they raise issues of discrimination.
- We welcome different forms of self-regulation, such as stimming, and do not judge or condemn them.• We respect personal boundaries. No means no. Only a clear and freely given ‘yes’ constitutes consent. Our actions and communication with one another are based on consent.
- We contribute to an atmosphere that encourages people to engage in conversation. For us, sharing knowledge means helping to create an environment where uncertainties can be voiced and questions asked are part of being mindful of one another.
- We use first-person messages and remain constructive and respectful when offering criticism or feedback.
- We listen and welcome feedback with an open mind. When we receive feedback, we do not argue or justify ourselves, but take on board what we wish to accept. We take the time to reflect on feedback, and see interactions as an opportunity to learn and treat one another with greater care.
- We cherish the venue, the work of our hosts and our surroundings. We treat spaces, objects, plants, animals and more-than-human life with care, and do not damage or harm anything or anyone.
The Code of Conduct is a living, ever-evolving tool. If you have any questions or suggestions for improvement, please email us at awareness@photoszene.de or speak to the Awareness people on site. These guidelines complement the mission statement of the Internationale Photoszene Köln.
“Not Knowing. Photography and the Unknown”
By taking part in the conference “Not Knowing. Photography and the Unknown”, participants, speakers, staff and other involved parties acknowledge these agreements and contribute to their implementation. Anyone who breaches these agreements may be excluded from the event. In this case, the ticket price will not be refunded.