OUTFEST CODE OF CONDUCT

We value, respect, and honor our community’s vibrant diversity and perspectives of guests and employees, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to artistic freedom. We promote an open exchange of views and perspectives in a mutually courteous environment, ensuring that guests and staff have a safe and pleasurable experience while visiting our film festivals, theaters, and events.

• • We expect that every attendee – audience, storyteller, artists; volunteers; members of the press; industry representatives; employees; board members; and others—maintain an environment that is welcoming to all by:
  • Embracing the inclusiveness of all people concerning individuality, race, ethnicity, gender identity/expression, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, age, physical appearance and body size, spoken language, and immigration or economic status are all included and respected.
  • Not disrupting movies, sessions, presentations, or other events and demonstrating respect for moderators, artists, and audience members.
  • Abstaining from hate speech of any type and abusive or offensive language or pictures, including the use of chat or similar electronic communications.
  • Respecting others’ personal space and boundaries by avoiding unwanted, unlawful attention, including sexual harassment and harassment of any type, stalking, and inappropriate physical contact.
  • Respecting others’ health and safety by adhering to any current health or safety protocols. If you believe you have witnessed or experienced a breach of this Code of Conduct, please inform the nearest staff member, and we will review the issue and respond as swiftly as possible. You can also email safety@outfest.org with a formal notification to the event organizers. Please keep in mind that notifying us is not the same as or equivalent to notifying local law enforcement.

Outfest will investigate all instances that violate our Code of Conduct timely and equitably. For violations of this Code of Conduct, Outfest reserves the right to remove an attendee immediately for the violation of our Code of Conduct policy. Individuals removed will not receive reimbursement for any badge, ticket, or benefit purchased. They may also be permanently banned or lose membership, the ability to purchase future tickets, passes, and other related privileges without prior notification or reimbursement.

SAFETY & SECURITY

The following is general safety information and not intended to be a comprehensive guide.

Always exercise common sense and good judgment when traveling and attending events. Here are some ways to do that:

General Safety:

• • Call 9-1-1 immediately in the event of an emergency or for non-emergencies, please speak with the nearest staff member or send an email to safety@outfest.org with a formal notification to the event organizers. Please keep in mind that notifying us is not the same as or equivalent to notifying local law enforcement.
  • Know where you are. Note street addresses or cross streets.
  • Look out for others. If you become aware of someone who is ill or needs help, inform a member of venue staff, or contact police, fire, or medical personnel. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Carry details of any medications and allergies with you.
  • Travel in pairs or groups when walking. Designate a meeting point, or let others know where you plan to be in the event you become separated from your group.
  • Take a photo or note where your vehicle is parked.

When visiting any venue:

• • Know where you are; the venue name, street address or cross street.

  • Take a moment to identify at least two exit routes from any building or event and emergency exit signs.

  • If an alarm sounds, evacuate immediately. Follow directions from First Responders and venue staff.

  • Do not carry any unnecessary valuables with you.

  • Do not leave drinks unattended, or accept open drinks, or food products from strangers.

Protecting your property:

• • Make a note of your hotel address and store it separately from other items.

  • Never write your hotel room number on your room key.

  • If parking, lock your vehicle and never leave valuables or personal items on display.

Suspicious Activity

• • Outfest supports the See Something, Say Something campaign. If you see something suspicious please call 1-877-A-THREAT (1-877-284-7328). Then, if able, please send an email to safety@outfest.org with a formal notification to the event organizers.

  • Never leave your bags or possessions unattended. Unattended bags may disrupt events and could be removed, damaged, or destroyed by police or other security services.

Emergency Evacuations

• • In the event of an emergency evacuation, make your way quickly and calmly to an emergency exit. Be aware of any hazards or dangers around you, and proceed to a safe area.

  • Follow the advice of venue staff, security personnel and First Responders.

  • Do not put yourself in danger by stopping to collect belongings unless directed by First Responders.