Last revised: May 2024

Purpose

As the Pride of the Déise (POTD) community continues to grow, we must work together to create a space that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. This policy acknowledges that while not all spaces can be entirely safe due to the diversity of our community, we can and should commit to creating an accountable space based on shared values of respect, equality, and inclusivity.

Pride of the Déise’s Safe Space Policy, created in collaboration with the POTD membership, is an agreement that all enter into when attending a POTD event or engaging in an online space facilitated by POTD. This policy was shaped by community feedback through anonymized consultations.

 

Who does this policy apply to?

This policy applies to all attendees, performers, vendors, and volunteers POTD events or in online spaces facilitated by POTD. Membership extends to anyone present at a POTD event or in a POTD online space.

 

Where does this policy apply?

The Safe Space Policy is applicable in the context of all POTD events (both online and in-person), trips or outings organised under the banner of POTD, and closed online spaces (such as social media groups) hosted by POTD.

 

Who is responsible for enforcing this policy?

POTD encourages collective accountability among its members. Each member will be made aware of the Safe Space Policy through digital communication or physical copies at events. By acknowledging receipt of the policy, members agree to uphold its key commitments. Alleged breaches of this agreement will trigger a complaints procedure to achieve a resolution that supports those impacted and reaffirms the commitments within the policy.

 

Pride of the Déise Safe Space Policy: Key Commitments in Our Community

Child Safeguarding and Youth Events

At Pride of the Déise (POTD), the safety and well-being of children and young people are paramount. Our youth events are meticulously organised in collaboration with Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Services (WSTCYS), a trusted partner since our founding in 2019. WSTCYS brings decades of experience in youth engagement and child safeguarding, ensuring that all activities are conducted in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Their expertise helps us uphold the highest standards of care and protection, giving parents and guardians peace of mind that their children are participating in events that are both enjoyable and secure.

 

Respect
Every member deserves to have their rights to dignity and respect honoured, regardless of their sexuality, gender identity, race, ethnicity, disability, body type, socio-economic class, religion, or any other aspect of their identity.

 

Confidentiality
We are mindful that everyone is at a different stage in their journey and may not be ‘out’. Information shared within POTD spaces must remain within those spaces unless explicit consent is given.

 

Freedom of expression
Everyone has the freedom to express themselves authentically, without judgement. However, accountability is required for expressions that are prejudicial.

 

Assume Good Faith
We understand that the impact of our words takes priority over intention. Members should be open to correction and new perspectives, assuming best intentions while addressing mistakes. If you are corrected on something like your language, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect. 

 

Consent
Consent must be ongoing, mutual, informed, and freely given. It extends beyond physical engagement to include conversations on sensitive topics. “No” is a full sentence, requiring no further explanation. This goes for physical contact as well as photography or video recording. Ask don;'t assume and respect peoples' boundaries.

 

Equality and intersectionality
We commit to supporting social equality and acknowledging the interconnected struggles of various marginalised groups. Continuous unlearning and relearning are essential to maintaining an informed, intersectional, and anti-prejudiced space.

 

Participation
Respect for different modes of engagement is crucial. Participation should be inclusive, accommodating non-verbal communication and other diverse forms of involvement.

 

Inclusive language
Avoid using language that is racist, ableist, shaming, or otherwise prejudicial. We support each other in identifying and rectifying harmful language. As above, if you are corrected or made aware that language you are using is harmful or otherwise prejudicial please assume good faith in the person that is correcting you and take a moment to learn more. 

 

Communication
Everyone's voice should be valued, respecting turns in conversation and diverse communication styles. We accommodate different needs to ensure effective and respectful communication.

 

Bullying and harassment
POTD has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, or sexual harassment. Such behaviours undermine our commitment to a safe space.

 

Hate speech and discrimination
We are collectively responsible for challenging hate speech and discrimination. Moderators will remove such content from online spaces, and offenders at events may be asked to leave.

 

Complaints procedure
Members have the right to make complaints if the policy is not upheld. Initial resolutions aim to be informal, but formal procedures will follow for serious issues. Continuous violations may result in restricted participation.

 

Incident Reporting

We have established a confidential and accessible channel for reporting breaches of our Safe Space Policy. Reports will be handled with confidentiality and appropriate measures will be taken to address the situation.

 

Reporting Methods:

• Click here for Report Form 

• Or Email Us: prideofthedeise@gmail.com

 

Your willingness to speak up ensures that we can maintain a supportive environment for all. We appreciate your cooperation in upholding our shared values of respect and inclusivity.