Our collective art space is a home for creativity, empowerment, and mutual respect. We created this space to be safe, welcoming, and inclusive for queer and IBPOC artists and allies. This code of conduct reflects our shared values and expectations for everyone involved in our space, whether you are a member or a guest, ensuring that our community thrives in mutual respect and solidarity.

1. Inclusivity and Respect

We welcome everyone who supports the vision of a safer community space for queer and IBPOC artists. We celebrate all expressions of identity, creativity, and culture. We ask that all members and guests:

• Respect people’s gender identities, pronouns, and cultural backgrounds.
• Avoid making assumptions about anyone’s race, gender, ability, or sexual orientation.
• Call each other in when learning moments arise.

2. Anti-Oppression and Accountability

We are committed to an anti-oppressive space where harmful behaviours are actively challenged and addressed. Discrimination, harassment, or oppressive behaviours based on race, gender, sexuality, disability, or any other strategically marginalized identity will not be tolerated. This includes:

• Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, fatphobia, or any form of prejudice.
• Derogatory or harmful language.
• Any behaviour that contributes to an unsafe or unwelcome environment.

We believe in accountability, and individuals are encouraged to have conversations and learn together. Those who are harming others (including physical or verbal violence) will be asked to leave the space after discussion and appropriate action.

3. Consent and Boundaries

We value clear communication and respect for personal boundaries. In both physical and emotional interactions, consent is paramount. All members are expected to:

• Ask for consent before touching others or entering someone’s personal space.
• Respect boundaries around topics of conversation and emotional labour.
• Use clear and direct communication when engaging with others.

4. Collaboration and Support

This is a collaborative space where the contributions of each artist, community member, and visitor are honoured. We encourage collaboration through:

• Sharing resources and opportunities with the collective in a spirit of mutual aid.
• Providing constructive feedback that uplifts and supports others’ creative processes.
• Offering mentorship, when appropriate, to uplift emerging queer and IBPOC artists.

5. Safety and Well-being

Physical, emotional, and psychological safety is a priority in our space. To support everyone’s well-being, we ask that:

• Participants avoid the use of substances that may impair judgment or cause harm to others in the space.
• If you are someone who relies upon substances, we ask that you be considerate and mindful of how you are on substances and show respect and courtesy to other folks in the space.
• Individuals in distress or crisis are treated with compassion, and professional resources (such as mental health services) are made available when possible.
• All members are responsible for maintaining the safety and cleanliness of the space and addressing issues of access and accommodation.

We have a naloxone kit onsite for folks.

6. COVID Safety

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable members, we ask that everyone follows these safety protocols:

• We encourage and recommend that KN95 or higher-grade masks (what some people refer to as respirators) be used in our space, particularly during the winter months when the risk of transmission is higher.
• Surgical masks do not provide sufficient COVID-19 protection and will not be allowed at The Grove. You will be provided with a KN95.
• Our space is equipped with two air filters which are to be used during events.
• If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath), or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, stay home.
• If you test positive for COVID after attending an event at the Grove, contact us as soon as possible so that we can notify others who were at the event.

We recognize that risk mitigation is a spectrum for many, and we are committed to making our space as COVID-conscious as possible.

7. Conflict Resolution

We commit to resolving conflicts with care, understanding, and a focus on healing. We ask that:

• Issues are raised directly and respectfully with those involved, when safe to do so.
• Mediation is sought if necessary, to ensure a fair and thoughtful resolution.
• All parties remain open to dialogue and feedback, acknowledging when harm has occurred and seeking paths to repair.

Consequences of Violations

If anyone acts in a way that does not align with this code of conduct, steps may be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. These steps may include:

• A private conversation to address the situation.
• Temporary or permanent removal from the space, depending on the severity of the situation and harm that may be caused.
• An invitation to engage in restorative justice practices, if appropriate and agreed upon by all parties.

We all share responsibility in maintaining this space as a sanctuary for queer and IBPOC creativity. Let’s work together to uplift one another and create art that is bold, compassionate, and transformative.