Author Nation Code of Conduct

Author Nation is committed to providing an environment that encourages the free expression and exchange of ideas and promotes equal opportunities and respectful treatment for all participants.

Author Nation is its own entity, and does not adhere to any previous conduct standards or rules used by any other groups.

Author Nation is not in the business of dictating to people the nuances of social interactions. However, at Author Nation events, we are committed to creating event environments that are inclusive, safe, and free from discrimination, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, transgender status, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, or any other classification protected by law. We support the freedom and diversity of our community, and equality for all.

All participants of Author Nation events must abide by the following policy:

Expected Behavior

1. Be considerate, respectful, and collaborative.
2. Refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, aggressive, or harassing behavior and speech. Free speech and discourse are welcome, but character attacks and belittling the beliefs or background of another is not. In open or public spaces, try to maintain the collaborative atmosphere by avoiding derisive jokes or insults about politics, religion, or social issues. If the conversation cannot be held in a respectful manner and tone, consider whether to have it.
3. Healthy, respectful dialogue during a panel or discussion is welcome.
4. Be mindful of your surroundings and of your fellow participants. Alert event staff if you notice a dangerous situation or someone in distress.
5. Wear your badge at all times while at the event or event venues.
6. Please drink responsibly.

Harmful Behavior

Harmful behaviors may include, but are not limited to:

1. Harassment and discrimination may include any verbal, physical, or visual conduct based on sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, transgender status, race, age, national origin, or disability.
2. Harassment and discrimination may include inappropriate use of nudity and/or sexual images in public spaces; deliberate intimidation, stalking or following; photographing or recording another attendee without first securing their permission; sustained disruption of sessions, talks or other events; inappropriate physical contact; or any unwelcome sexual attention.
3. Harmful behavior may include boisterous, lewd, or offensive behavior or language; using sexually suggestive, explicit, or offensive language or conduct; profanity; obscene gestures; or racial, religious, or ethnic slurs.
4. Please wear clothing that is suitable for a collegial environment. Please avoid wearing clothing that insults any protected class of minorities, including any gender, gender-fluid, religion, race, or ethnicity.
5. **Author Nation respects and honors the First Amendment rights of all our attendees, but in deference to our peers, please keep in mind the time, manner, and place where you discuss current events, hot topic subjects, and “friends-only” content. This way, we can ensure the conference remains open and welcoming for attendees around you.**
6. Harmful behavior may include possession of a weapon or any item that can be used as a weapon, which may be used to threaten or cause injury to others if used in a certain manner.
7. Harmful behavior includes any destruction or vandalizing of personal property or event site or materials.
8. Harmful behavior includes possessing any illegal substance. Author Nation does not tolerate the use or abuse of illegal substances anywhere in the event venues.
9. Smoking or vaping is not permitted, other than in designated areas outside the conference area, as established by Caesars.
10. Harmful behavior includes any other illegal activity not already covered above.
11. Many event venues are shared with members of the public; please be respectful to all patrons of these locations.
12. Harmful behavior includes failure to follow any of the rules or regulations of the event venues or instructions of the event staff.

## Consequences of Harmful Behavior

Harmful or egregious behavior will not be tolerated. Anyone asked to stop harmful behavior is expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in harmful behavior, the event organizers may take any action they deem necessary, up to and including expulsion from the event without warning or refund and, if necessary, involvement of venue security and local law enforcement.