AEBC Code of Conduct for Members

Date adopted: August 28, 2021

Date updated:

Introduction

The purpose of this code of conduct is to describe the core values of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) and expected behaviours. The goal of this code of conduct is to create an inclusive and respectful community based on camaraderie and compassion for everyone associated or interacting with AEBC. 

All AEBC members unless stated otherwise are expected to understand and follow this code of conduct.

This code of conduct is not intended to limit the right of a member to submit a complaint or pursue changes to AEBC’s policies and procedures through appropriate methods (e.g. submitting resolutions or amendments to Bylaws or approaching the National Board). This Code also does not limit the right of a member to report a perceived offense to the appropriate external authority such as the police.

Core Values and Expected Behaviours

1.   Courtesy: Treating all people with respect and dignity.

Expected behaviours:

·      Use appropriate language, tone, and politeness when communicating with others verbally or in writing.

·      Respect the personal boundaries of others.

·      Follow AEBC’s Anti-discrimination Anti-harassment Policy.

·      Follow AEBC’s Listserv Guidelines.

2.   Diversity and Inclusion: Diversity is the representation of different people in an organization. Inclusion ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute.

Expected behaviours:

·      Accept the diverse backgrounds, experiences, identities and intersectionalities (i.e. the effect of overlapping personal characteristics) of individuals.

·      Give everyone an equal opportunity to participate.

·      Follow AEBC’s Anti-discrimination Anti-harassment policy.

3.   Justice: Fair minded and equal treatment.

Expected behaviours:

·      Treat all members equally and fairly.

·      Follow AEBC’s bylaws and policies and Canadian laws according to due process.

4.   Accountability and Integrity: Accountability is the obligation to accept responsibility for one’s actions. Integrity is characterized by honesty and strong moral principles.

Expected behaviours:

·      Members will take personal responsibility for following through with agreed upon actions.

·      Members will declare all conflicts of interest as per the Conflict of Interest Policy.

·      National and chapter Board members will share information about all AEBC’s activities including financial transactions within the bounds of confidentiality. 

·      Those who have been asked to represent the organization (including but not limited to external representatives and delegated officials) will make decisions and take actions based on the organization’s direction, keeping the National Board informed.

5.   Confidentiality: The requirement of members to keep information about the organization and its members private until it can be released by the authority of the appropriate Board.

Expected behaviours:

·      Members will keep any personal information learned about other members to themselves.

·      Members will keep matters confidential if specifically directed by the National or chapter Board or a committee chair.

·      When required by AEBC policy, members will sign and follow a confidentiality agreement.

6.   Loyalty and Solidarity: putting the goals and expectations of the organization ahead of one’s personal goals and expectations.

Expected behaviours:

·      Concerns regarding actions taken by AEBC or its members are to be brought to the appropriate Board.  Criticism that reaches outside of the organization will be viewed as a serious offense and referred to the appropriate Board.

·      AEBC representatives are to speak with the Board if they find themselves in a conflict of loyalties.

Conclusion

AEBC encourages open and frank discussion and as a consequence, members will occasionally find themselves in the position of agreeing to disagree. Respectful disagreement is not a violation of this Code of Conduct. Actual violations, however, are subject to potential discipline including but not limited to a verbal or written reprimand, suspension or expulsion as per Bylaw 19.