Safe Spaces Policy

Definitions

Harassment: Includes offensive verbal comments or attitudes related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, caste; deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of events (both physical and virtual), inappropriate physical contact, unwelcome sexual attention, cyberbullying, online stalking, sharing private information without consent (“doxxing”), and hate speech.

Events: Includes all offline and online events, such as conferences, meetups, virtual hangouts, webinars, virtual meetings, conversations over messaging applications, social media groups, email lists, and any similar gatherings organized by GameDev India or its partners, whether at a physical location or in a virtual space.

Policy

GameDev India (Further referred to as We, Us, Team, GDI) is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community for Indian game developers worldwide. We want you to feel comfortable and secure participating in our events, both online and offline. To achieve this, we uphold the following Safe Spaces Policy:

1. Reporting Concerns

  1. If anything or anyone makes you feel uncomfortable at one of our events, no matter how minor it seems, please report it to us.
  2. You can report concerns during an event or afterward. We take all reports seriously.

2. Zero Tolerance for Harassment

  1. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
  2. Anyone violating this policy may be expelled from the event without a refund, and may be banned from future events.
  3. Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior must comply immediately.
  4. Ignorance or intoxication is not an excuse for unacceptable behavior.

3. Consequences of Harassment

  1. If someone engages in harassing behavior, we will take appropriate action, including warnings, expulsion from the event, and potential bans from future events.
  2. We will assist anyone experiencing harassment to feel safe, including contacting venue security, local law enforcement, providing escorts, or offering other forms of support.

4. Inclusivity and Respect

  1. This policy applies to all participants, staff, volunteers, and organizers.
  2. If any aspect of our events, including communication, artwork, performances, game selection, or event partners, makes you feel uncomfortable or you find offensive, please inform us.
  3. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.

5. Confidential Reporting

  1. You can report concerns in person to a team member at an event, or via email at our listed contact information below. The email content will be shared by the Safe Spaces moderation team listed below.
  2. All communication will be handled confidentially.
  3. If your complaint involves one of the moderators listed below, please reach out to another moderator or team member.

6. Contact Information

  1. Email: compliance@gamedev.in
  2. Moderators with access to this email: Kinshuk Sunil, Shagufta Khan, and Yadu Rajiv

7. Adaptation

  1. This policy is adapted from the Safe Spaces Policy by that.party, which is an adaptation of a policy template provided by Geek Feminism.
  2. We have expanded its scope to address the specific needs of online communities and events.

We are committed to continuously improving our policies and procedures to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone in our community. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and inclusive space.

Last Updated August 15, 2024.