Code of Conduct

BSides Philadelphia is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants.

Our Commitment

We are committed to providing a harassment-free conference 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 do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate for any conference venue, including talks, workshops, parties, Twitter and other online media.

Expected Behavior

All conference participants are expected to:

  • Be respectful and inclusive in speech and actions
  • Refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behavior and speech
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and of your fellow participants
  • Alert conference organizers if you notice violations of this Code of Conduct
  • Respect the venue and its property
  • Follow all applicable laws and venue policies
Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are considered harassment and are unacceptable:

  • Verbal or written abuse, threats, or intimidation
  • Discriminatory jokes, language, or imagery
  • Unwelcome sexual attention or advances
  • Personal insults related to gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or disability
  • Inappropriate physical contact without consent
  • Stalking or following
  • Disruption of talks or other conference events
  • Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior
Consequences

Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the conference organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including:

  • Warning the offender
  • Expulsion from the conference without refund
  • Prohibition from future BSides Philadelphia events
  • Reporting to appropriate authorities if laws have been broken
Reporting Incidents

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of conference staff immediately.

How to Report

  • • Find any staff member wearing a BSides Philadelphia shirt
  • • Email: conduct@bsidesphilly.org
  • • Text/Call: Conference hotline (number provided at registration)
  • • Visit the registration desk

Conference staff will be happy to help participants contact venue security or local law enforcement, provide escorts, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the conference.

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all BSides Philadelphia conference spaces, including but not limited to:

  • Conference sessions and workshops
  • Networking areas and breaks
  • Social events and after-parties
  • Online spaces (social media, chat platforms)
  • Any venue or location where conference activities take place

This Code of Conduct is adapted from the Conference Code of Conduct and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License.