Minnesota Atheists is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone attending our events, regardless of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of event participants in any form. Sexual language and imagery are generally not appropriate for our events, including talks. Attendees violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the event without a refund (if applicable) at the discretion of the organizers. Minnesota Atheists may also decide to limit or prohibit attendance at future events. 

Harassment includes, but may not be limited to, verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination related to race, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, disability status, physical appearance, body size, ethnicity, nationality, class, language ability, immigration status, or religious affiliation; sexual images in public spaces; deliberate intimidation; stalking; following; harassing photography or recording; sustained disruption of talks or other events; inappropriate physical contact; and non-consensual sexual attention or abuse, as well as advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior. 

Discussions or images related to sex, pornography, discriminatory language, or similar is welcome in presentations and panel discussions if it meets all of the following criteria: (a) the organizers have specifically granted permission in writing, (b) it is necessary to the topic of discussion and no alternative exists, (c) it is presented in a respectful manner, especially towards those who identify as women and LGBTQIA, (d) attendees are warned in advance in event descriptions and respectfully given ample warning and opportunity to leave beforehand. This exception specifically does not allow use of gratuitous sexual images as attention-getting devices or unnecessary examples. 

As an attendee discussing these topics in personal conversation, please be aware of your audience. If you feel you may be making someone uncomfortable, or if you are told you are making someone uncomfortable, we expect you will stop immediately and respectfully. 

Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. If an attendee or other participant engages in harassing behavior, the organizers may take any action they deem appropriate to keep the event a welcoming environment for all participants. This may include, but not be limited to, warning the offender or expulsion of the offender from the event without refund. 

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact an event organizer or Minnesota Atheists board member as soon as possible. Organizers for each event are identified on that event’s Meetup.com page. Board members are listed on our website. You may also fill out a complaint report, and our code of conduct committee will follow up as soon as possible. 

When taking a personal report, our organizers will ensure you are safe and cannot be overheard. They may involve other organizers or board members to ensure your report is managed properly. Once safe, we’ll ask you to tell us about what happened. This can be upsetting, but we’ll handle it as respectfully as possible, and you can bring someone to support you. You won’t be asked to confront anyone, and we won’t tell anyone who you are. 

Organizers will be available to help participants contact venue security, local law enforcement, provide escorts to and from the venue, or otherwise assist those feeling unsafe for the duration of the event. You are also welcome to reach out for help beyond Minnesota Atheists on your own as needed or desired. We value your participation. 

Please send any questions and concerns to info@mnatheists.org.