Code of Conduct
All attendees, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers at our conference must agree with the following code of conduct. Organizers will enforce this code throughout the event. We expect cooperation from all participants to help ensure a safe environment for everybody.
The Quick Version
Our conference is dedicated 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 are not appropriate for any conference venue, including talks, workshops, parties, Twitter, and other online media. Conference participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the conference without a refund at the conference organizers’ discretion.
The Less Quick Version
Harassment includes offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, technology choices, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention.
Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.
Sponsors are also subject to the anti-harassment policy. In particular, sponsors should not use sexualized images, activities, or other material. Booth staff (including volunteers) should not use sexualized clothing/uniforms/costumes, or otherwise create a sexualized environment.
If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the conference organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the conference with no refund.
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. Conference staff can be identified as they’ll be wearing branded conference badges and/or t-shirts.
Conference staff will be happy to help participants contact hotel/venue security or local law enforcement, provide escorts, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the conference. We value your attendance.
Alcohol Policy
Some of our events include the option for of-age attendees to consume alcoholic beverages. We expect all attendees to exercise extreme moderation: know your limits and do not even get near them. Attendees who overindulge may be asked to leave the event without a refund and may be barred from attending future events produced by our organization. We always offer soft drinks and try to make those complimentary whenever possible.
Being an adult means being respectful of yourself and of those around you.
Reporting Guidelines
If You Are Being Harassed
If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a conference staff member immediately.
Conference staff can be identified by:
- Branded conference badges
- Event staff t-shirts
- “STAFF” designation on name badges
How to Report
In Person: Find any conference staff member
Phone/Text: Emergency contact numbers will be provided at registration
Email: safety@powershellsummit.org
What Information to Provide
When making a report, please include:
- Your contact information (if comfortable providing it)
- Names of any witnesses
- When and where the incident occurred
- Description of what happened
- Any additional circumstances
If you feel your safety is in immediate danger, call 911 or ask conference staff to do so.
Our Response
Investigation Process
Our organization is not equipped or trained to interview witnesses, gather evidence, or perform other investigative activities. To preserve your rights and options, we will not engage in activities that are best left to professionals, such as law enforcement officers.
Actions We May Take
Conference organizers may take any appropriate action, including:
- Warning the offender
- Requiring an apology
- Removing the participant from specific events
- Expulsion from the conference with no refund
- Banning from future conferences
- Involving law enforcement when appropriate
Confidentiality
We will respect your privacy and confidentiality. It is not our policy to make general announcements when harassment occurs unless we believe there is a clear and present danger to the safety of one or more people.
Additional Policies
Photography and Recording
Our conference uses a third party for video capture and production of select sessions, which will be posted on PowerShell.org’s social media accounts.
Personal photography and recording:
- Photos of presentations and slides are generally permitted
- Always ask permission before photographing individuals
- Respect “no photos” requests immediately
- No recording of personal conversations without explicit consent
Professional Conduct
We expect all participants to:
- Be respectful in all interactions
- Use inclusive language
- Avoid disrupting sessions or activities
- Respect intellectual property
- Follow venue rules and policies
Venue-Specific Rules
The City of Bellevue takes noise and conduct ordinances seriously and can issue citations to event organizers for violations. All attendees are expected to comply with local laws and venue policies.
Getting Help
Conference Staff
Look for staff members wearing branded badges or t-shirts. Our CEO and senior officers are designated as Duty Officers.
Emergency Services
For immediate safety concerns, call 911 or ask conference staff to assist.
Venue Security
Conference staff can help you contact hotel security if needed.
Local Resources
- Bellevue Police: (425) 577-5656
- Crisis Support: Crisis connections 24/7 at (866) 427-4747
Contact Information
General Questions: info@powershellsummit.org
Safety Concerns: safety@powershellsummit.org
Accessibility: accessibility@powershellsummit.org
This code of conduct is based on guidance from geekfeminism.wikia.org and adapted for our community.
By registering for the PowerShell + DevOps Global Summit, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.