Crusade Against Corruption Code of Conduct for Members
A. Purpose
It is important for us to ensure that the conduct of members of the Crusade Against Corruption is in keeping with the Crusade’s core values of liberty and solidarity, as well as the Crusade’s need to avoid unnecessary legal issues, or harm to our reputation. As such, we are committed to providing our members with clear guidelines and expectations. It must be distinctly understood that the Crusade Against Corruption is a peaceful and law-abiding organization, and does not endorse any violation of law or statute. By joining the Crusade of Corruption, you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct, in its entirety. You likewise agree to release the Crusade Against Corruption from all liability resulting from your actions or conduct. You furthermore acknowledge that your actions are your own, and do not represent those of the organization itself.
The aim of this Code of Conduct is to give you guidance regarding the key issues that you need to be aware of, and the standards by which you are expected to behave as a member of the Crusade Against Corruption. This Code applies to all Crusade-related functions and events, including First Amendment Audits, meetings, rallies, webinars, conferences, and all public-facing events.
B. Basic Principles
- Members shall not engage in ANY activity that is in violation of law or statute. First Amendment Auditors must thoroughly research all federal, state, and local laws prior to performing an audit. They must likewise thoroughly research property lines and boundaries, in order to ensure that they are indeed in a public space.
- Members are not to engage in any conduct that might be deemed harassment of any individual, whether a member of the public, a public servant, or law enforcement officer.
- Educating the public on their rights is one of the hallmarks of our organization. We expect interactions to be conducted with civility and respect, as fellow citizens committed to the same ideals.
- Interactions involving cameras sometimes lead to conflicts. When handled properly, conflicts can result in educational opportunities, both for the auditor and for the public. If handled poorly, conflicts can have a detrimental impact on the Crusade Against Corruption’s cause, our members, our communities, and the First Amendment Auditing movement itself.
C. Code of Conduct Standards and Values
As a member of the Crusade Against Corruption, I will:
- Uphold the integrity and reputation of the Crusade Against Corruption by ensuring that my professional and personal conduct is demonstrably consistent with the Crusade Against Corruption’s values and standards.
- In recognizing my role in The Crusade Against Corruption’s mission to educate individuals on their First Amendment Rights, and to thus promote transparency in government and accountability, I will respect all peoples’ rights, and I will contribute to a harmonious movement characterized by mutual respect, integrity, dignity and non-discrimination, by, at a minimum:
- refraining from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behavior and speech;
- participating in an authentic and active way;
- exercising consideration and in my speech and actions;
- sharing analysis and opinions rather than insults;
- acknowledging that members of ALL political persuasions are welcome and valued, and thus refrain from political discussion outside of the realm of our shared Constitutional Rights;
- addressing conflicts and disagreements in a professional and respectful manner, and seeking assistance from a Crusade Against Corruption chapter leader or staff when necessary. This does not require that a member who is the subject of harassment or other conduct that potentially violates the Crusade Against Corruption’s anti-harassment policy attempt to deal with a harasser.
- refraining from targeting audit locations or individuals based on a political nature, nor revealing personal political leanings in interactions or conduct.
I will ensure that my relationships and behavior in the context of my role as a Crusade Against Corruption member are not exploitative, abusive or corrupt in any way.
I will not use any grievance process–or encourage or assist anyone in using any grievance process– to rid a Crusade Against Corruption chapter of people with whom I or they disagree politically, and/or with whom I or they have been engaged in conflict.
I will not attempt to silence or marginalize any fellow member, and I will not try to influence others to silence or marginalize any member.
If I have concerns about a member’s conduct, I will report that conduct to the Crusade Against Corruption, and not take matters into my own hands.
I will not engage in any of the following conduct:
- Violence, threats of violence or violent language directed against another person;
- Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist or otherwise discriminatory jokes and language;
- Displaying sexually explicit or violent material;
- Personal insults, particularly those related to gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or disability;
- Inappropriate physical contact. You should have someone’s consent before touching them;
- Unwelcome sexual attention. This includes: sexualized comments or jokes; inappropriate touching, groping, and unwelcome sexual advances;
- Deliberate intimidation, stalking or following;
- Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior.
- Making any statements that give the impression that you are speaking on behalf of the organization. You must clearly state that you do not represent, nor speak on behalf, the Crusade Against Corruption.
I will be responsible for the use of information, equipment, and resources to which I have access by reason of my membership in the Crusade Against Corruption.
- I will respect the confidentiality of sensitive information to which I gain access by virtue of my membership in the Crusade Against Corruption.
- I will not use membership, financial or other data to harm the Crusade Against Corruption or any Crusade members.
- I will not create or maintain any social media accounts in the Crusade Against Corruption’s name without written permission.
D. Consequences of Unacceptable Behavior
Unacceptable behavior from any member will not be tolerated. Depending on the severity of the offense, a member may be prohibited from further participation in the organization.
