Feedback+Bozeman Community Agreement

Welcome to Feedback+Bozeman! We aim to create a space for sharing, learning, and belonging.

As we gather at Feedback+Bozeman, we are united by a shared vision: to create a space that respects and celebrates the diversity of our experiences, backgrounds, and identities. This Community Agreement stands as our collective commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive Summit environment. Here, we prioritize the behaviors that nurture a sense of belonging for all, emphasizing the positive actions we can take to build the inclusive community we aspire to.

Our Commitments

Understanding Our ‘Why’: Every aspect of Feedback+Bozeman is designed with intention. Feedback Labs aims to reduce harm, dismantle barriers to inclusion, and create a space where every individual can thrive. By understanding the ‘why’ behind Feedback Labs’ actions and agreements, we foster a deeper connection to our collective goals and the measures we take to achieve them. You can read about Feedback Labs’ ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion here.

 

Consent and Clarity: In our actions and discussions, consent is paramount. We are here by choice, united in our purpose and the activities we engage in. This clarity of intention sets the foundation for a respectful and meaningful interaction, where boundaries are acknowledged and valued.

 

Identity Respect: Your presence is valued beyond the qualifications or explanations of your identities. We recognize and honor the complexities of individual experiences without requiring justification. Here, you are seen, respected, and welcomed as you are.

 

Pursuit-Free Environment: We acknowledge and respect that everyone here has chosen to be part of this event, embracing the opportunity to learn, share, and grow together. We aim to provide a Summit environment free from harassment and unwanted advances, safeguarding the comfort and security of every attendee, allowing us to focus on the collective experience and the richness it brings.

 

Inclusivity Over Cliques: To build a community that truly reflects the diversity of its members, we encourage you to explore new relationships and conversations, even as you deepen connections with those you may already know. Our strength lies in our unity and the rich tapestry of connections that form when we embrace inclusivity over exclusion.

 

Reducing Harm, Enhancing Safety: Our commitment to reducing harm is unwavering. Through thoughtful engagement and proactive measures, we strive to create an environment where everyone can feel safe and supported. This means that we collectively and actively work to prevent exclusion, discrimination, and harm, ensuring our event is a “soft space” (even in hard conversations) for all.

 

Since we launched registration for the Summit several months ago, the environment around nonprofit and philanthropic work has changed in some considerable ways. Give the nature of much of the work being discussed, some speakers have shared that they prefer their sessions, events, or plenaries not to be recorded or streamed. To create a space that enhances safety for everyone, we ask attendees not to record any session, event, or plenary that they attend during the Summit and pre-Summit events. 

Encouraged Behaviors

Active Listening and Empathy: Engage with others from a place of understanding and empathy. Listen to learn, not to respond, embracing the diverse perspectives that enrich our community.

 

Respect and Courtesy: Treat every individual with dignity and courtesy. Acknowledge the value of differing opinions and experiences, fostering a culture of mutual respect. 

 

Active Participation and Good Faith: Promote active engagement and discussion while adopting a learning posture, being open to feedback, and assuming others’ positive intentions to genuinely learn and connect. Good faith actions also address discomfort openly and constructively.

Collaboration and Support: Seek opportunities to collaborate and support one another. Together, we can achieve more, building a community that uplifts and empowers its members.

 

Openness and Vulnerability: Share your experiences and be open to the stories of others. Vulnerability fosters connection and deepens our collective understanding. Vulnerability is nurtured when we are aware and attentive to the intent and impact of our words and actions.

 

Continuous Learning: Embrace the journey of continuous learning and growth. Be open to “try on” new ideas, perspectives, and challenges that expand our understanding and capabilities.

Process For Reporting

We aim to have an accessible process for reporting incidents, providing feedback, or suggesting improvements, emphasizing our commitment to accountability and responsive action. If you have been subjected to inappropriate behavior or have suggestions for how we could improve your experience, you can submit your feedback anonymously here or contact us directly at [email protected]. You can expect a response from the Feedback+Bozeman team within one business day of your submission.

Conclusion

Our Community Agreement is a living document, reflecting our evolving commitment to creating a space where everyone can feel valued, heard, and included. By embracing these principles, we not only enhance our own experience but also contribute to a culture of equity and inclusion that extends beyond the confines of Feedback+Bozeman. Together, let’s build a community of respect, belonging, and shared purpose.