May 3-6, 2015 Asilomar, California
Friendly Environment Policy
The central goal of a conference is to encourage the open exchange of ideas through free expression. This requires an environment that enables all to participate without fear of harassment.
We specifically define harassment as unwelcome or hostile behavior of an ad hominem nature, i.e., that focuses not on ideas but on people and identity. The ACM's anti-harassment policy lists a variety of specific unacceptable factors and behaviors. A response that the participant was “just joking,” or “teasing,” or being “playful,” will not be accepted.
Anyone witnessing or subject to unacceptable behavior should notify a conference committee member.
If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the conference organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the conference [with no refund].
[The wording of this policy is directly derived from that of the ACM, with thanks.]