Secular Overeaters Code of Conduct

At Secular Overeaters & Friends, we are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and harassment-free virtual spaces. Because our community meets primarily online, we prioritize digital safety and respectful communication. We expect all attendees, speakers, volunteers, and board members to adhere to the following standards:

1. Respect and Inclusivity in Digital Spaces

  • Treat all participants with respect, dignity, and kindness, regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or identities.
  • Practice mindful communication in both video/audio and chat functions.
  • Embrace diversity and strive to create a virtual atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued.

2. Harassment-Free Environment
Harassment in any form will not be tolerated, including but not limited to:

  • Verbal/Textual Harassment: Harmful comments, slurs, or derogatory remarks in the chat or during open-mic sharing.
  • Sexual Harassment: Unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, or displaying sexually explicit images/backgrounds.
  • Visual Harassment: Using the video feed to display offensive signs, gestures, or imagery.
  • Privacy Violations: Recording, screenshotting, or photographing other members without express consent.

3. Zero Tolerance for Zoom Disruptors
To ensure the integrity of our recovery space, any individual who enters an event for the purpose of disruption will be handled immediately:

  • Intentional Disruption: Any attendee who joins with the intent to interrupt proceedings via loud noises, offensive screen-sharing, or “spamming” the chat will be permanently removed.
  • Immediate Removal: Event hosts reserve the right to mute, disable video, or expel any participant who violates safety protocols without a prior warning.
  • Banning: Individuals identified as purposeful disruptors will be barred from all future Secular Overeaters & Friends digital platforms and events.

4. Digital Safety and Etiquette

  • Secure Host Codes: Please do not share meeting host codes with others. If another group member needs a host code, have them apply for their own: https://bit.ly/SO-ZoomCo-HostApplication
  • Environment: To the best of your ability, ensure your video background and audio environment are appropriate for a sensitive community setting.
  • Reporting: If you experience or witness harassment or suspicious behavior during a meeting, please use the “Chat” feature to message the Host/Co-host privately or email us with details.

5. Consequences of Violations

Violations of this code may result in:

  • Temporary muting or disabling of video.
  • Immediate removal from the current session.
  • Prohibition from attending future events hosted by Secular Overeaters & Friends.

6. Commitment to Improvement

We are dedicated to evolving our digital security as technology changes. We welcome your feedback on how we can better protect our members and uphold these principles.

"OA Tool of Anonymity: All members will be respected and their identities kept confidential. " Collage by Jenny.