SCC/MLA Statement of Appropriate Conduct

Approved by the SCC/MLA Executive Board – August 4, 2021

This statement applies to all professional and educational activities that are sponsored and officially recognized by the South Central Chapter of the Medical Library Association (SCC/MLA), including – but not limited to – conferences, meetings, workshops, online forums, social media, continuing education, and all means of communication among members and nonmembers relating to SCC/MLA activities.

It applies to all SCC/MLA members, nonmembers, invited guests, speakers, moderators, instructors, exhibitors, staff, and all others who participate in an SCC/MLA activity or event. SCC/MLA strives to be an inclusive, supportive, and comfortable space for all participants, and we are committed to making it a harassment-free environment. Harassment in any form will not be tolerated.

SCC/MLA seeks to provide an environment in which diverse participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an atmosphere of mutual human respect. We recognize a shared responsibility to create and hold that environment for the benefit of all. Some behaviors are, therefore, specifically prohibited:

• 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 during presentations or threatening speakers (verbally, physically or online).

Participants, presenters, and 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. Participants are encouraged to practice self-care and leave any uncomfortable situation. 

All participants are expected to observe these rules and behaviors in all venues, including online, and participate responsibly and with respect for the right of others to do likewise. Participants asked to stop hostile or harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. 

Please contact someone on the SCC/MLA Executive Board, if you believe you have been harassed or that a harassment problem exists. All such reports will be directed immediately to the Executive Board, who will determine and carry out the appropriate course of action.

Though all efforts will be made to seek a positive outcome where everyone can feel included and safe, incidents determined by the SCC/MLA Executive Board to violate our code of conduct could result in one or more of the following consequences:

• being asked to stop disruptive, hostile, or harassing behavior immediately

• being removed, without reimbursement, from conferences, meetings, webinars, or continuing education without credit

• being excluded from online forums or other activities

• having SCC/MLA membership terminated without reimbursement

The Executive Board may consult with and engage MLA staff, leaders, and legal counsel as appropriate. Event security and/or local law enforcement may be involved as appropriate based on the specific circumstances. A follow-up report will be made to individuals who report being harassed.

This statement was adapted (in 2021) from statements produced by the Medical Library Association, the NYC Archives Unconference, and the American Library Association.