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CERF 2025
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About | Conference Committees | Schedule-at-a-Glance | Inclusive Leadership Program | Rising TIDES Program | Event Policies | Code of Conduct |
The Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation (“CERF”) is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in CERF events and activities, whether in person or virtual. CERF prohibits and will not tolerate any form of harassment, bullying, or discrimination. Together, we can ensure that CERF events (as defined below) support the free expression and exchange of scientific ideas in environments that are positive and productive for all.
CERF has established this Event Code of Conduct (the “Code”) to serve as a guideline for the conduct of anyone attending or participating in a CERF event, as well as the consequences for unacceptable behavior. We expect you to follow this Code so that you and other participants can enjoy each applicable event responsibly and with respect for the rights of others. Failure to abide by this Code is subject to corrective action and sanctions, including but not limited to refused admission, ejection, banishment, disconnection from the event without refund, suspension of CERF membership or membership privileges, expulsion from membership, and/or other penalties consistent with this Code.
The Code applies to all attendees, media representatives, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, staff, contractors, volunteers, award recipients, organizers, and other guests (collectively referred to as “Participants”) who attend or participate in any manner in CERF programs, including webinars, conferences, events, meetings, social gatherings, and other activities held, sponsored, or affiliated with CERF, whether in person or virtual (“CERF events”). This Code is intended to supplement, but not replace, the CERF Code of Ethics that is applicable to all CERF members. By attending a CERF event, you agree to abide by this Event Code of Conduct.
CERF does not accept anonymous reports of unacceptable behavior as they cannot be acted upon. However, if you would like to speak with a neutral, independent, off-the-record resource, a conference ombuds will be on-site to hear concerns confidentially. An ombuds can assist with identifying options and resources to address conflicts or issues such as harassment, microaggressions, discrimination, or any violation of CERF’s Event Code of Conduct.
All conversations with the conference ombuds will be confidential.
The following behaviors are expected and requested of all CERF event participants:
Violations of this Code include but are not limited to the following:
Moreover, this Code is not intended to be all-inclusive, and it is likely there will be conduct issues that it does not specifically address. In that event, as in all others, Participants are expected to follow the direction of CERF event staff who will take appropriate action to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of Participants.
If you believe you are being subjected to inappropriate conduct, believe someone else is being subjected to inappropriate conduct, or have any other concerns, please alert CERF event staff who can work with CERF leadership to resolve the situation. CERF event staff will be happy to assist those experiencing inappropriate conduct to enable them to feel safe for the duration of the event. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or if you see something suspicious or would like to report a security issue or emergency, contact venue security or local law enforcement. You may also report unacceptable behavior by using this form.
Violations of this Code are taken seriously and should be promptly reported to any CERF event staff present. Share as much information as you can to help us make a thorough investigation of the incident. CERF will investigate all incidents reported at an event with discretion. Participants are required to maintain the confidentiality of materials submitted to or received by CERF under this Code. CERF shall make reasonable efforts to maintain the confidentiality of relevant materials but may disclose case-related materials or information in response to legal process, when already publicly known, or when CERF leadership otherwise determines disclosure is in the best interests of CERF.
CERF, in its sole discretion, will determine the nature of the participant's conduct that warrants corrective action as well as the corrective action to be taken. Corrective action may take any of the following forms: verbal warning; expulsion from the event; expulsion from the event with no refund of fees; bar from future CERF events; and/or notifying appropriate authorities. In addition, CERF may take action with regard to an event participant’s membership in CERF, if applicable, including suspension or expulsion, subject to established CERF procedures. Event participants asked to stop engaging in prohibited conduct are expected to comply immediately. If they do not comply, CERF event staff or organizers may mute or remove the Participant.
To protect all parties involved, CERF will generally not make any detailed public statements about Code incidents. The decision(s) of CERF are final. CERF may establish more detailed procedural guidelines for resolving conduct matters that are consistent with the provisions of these bylaws.
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For questions regarding the Event Code of Conduct, please contact CERF’s Executive Director, Susan Park ([email protected]). This Code is subject to change and may be revised without further notice.
Approved 19 October 2018
Revised 23 October 2020