Code of Conduct for Mid-Missouri DSA Meetings

In keeping with the general mission of DSA and of the Local Chapter, all members and guests shall observe a code of conduct that is consistent with our core values of freedom, equality, dignity, and solidarity, as well as DSA’s commitment to restructuring gender and cultural relationships to be more equitable and not oppressive within the context of building a diverse working class movement. As members of DSA, we all commit to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

    1. Members and guests shall not engage in harassment on the basis of sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, physical appearance, disability, race, color, religion, national origin, class, age, or profession. Members who have concerns about a member’s conduct shall report that conduct to a Comrade-at-Large.

      1. Members and guests shall respect all peoples’ rights and contribute to an organizing and working environment characterized by mutual respect, integrity, dignity, and non-discrimination, by, at a minimum: 

        1. refraining from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behavior and language;

        2. participating in an authentic and active way;

        3. exercising consideration in language and actions;

        4. sharing analysis and opinions rather than accusations;

        5. complying with applicable Community Agreements during meetings and other events; 

        6. addressing conflicts and disagreements in a professional and respectful manner, and seeking assistance from a Comrade-at-Large or Local Chapter leader when necessary. 

      2. Members and guests shall assume good faith in one another, make an effort to understand one another, and exercise patience with differing viewpoints; debates shall be conducted with civility and respect, as comrades committed to the same struggle.

      3. Members and guests shall ensure that their relationships and behavior in the context of their role as a member of the Local Chapter are not exploitative, abusive, or corrupt in any way.

      4. Members and guests shall disclose any financial, personal, family, or close intimate relationship interest in matters of official Local Chapter business which may impact the work of the Local Chapter.

      5. Members and guests shall respect the confidentiality of sensitive information to which they gain access by virtue of membership in the Local Chapter and shall not use membership, financial, or other data to harm DSA or any DSA members.

      6. Members and guests shall not take photographs, video, or audio recordings of other members and guests without their consent.

      7. Members and guests shall not create or maintain any social media accounts in DSA’s name without the permission of the Local Chapter or an official National DSA body.

      8. Members and guests shall not give any statements or interviews to any media organizations regarding DSA or DSA’s activities without the permission of the Local Chapter leadership.

      9. Members and guests shall not attempt to silence or marginalize any fellow member and shall not try to influence others to silence or marginalize any member.

      10. Members and guests shall not use any grievance or disciplinary process – or encourage or assist anyone in using any grievance or disciplinary process – in bad faith to rid the Local Chapter of people with whom they disagree politically, and/or with whom they have been engaged in conflict.