Policies & Agreements

 

Anti-Oppression Statement

In alignment with our organizational commitment to creating an arts sector rooted in justice, we are committed to ensuring a space that is free of racism, transphobia, homophobia, ableism, misogyny, classism, or other bias. Likewise, NPN supports the creation and touring of diverse original work and we encourage artists to show that work without compromise. We expect any work presented in any space hosted by NPN, as well as any hosts and partners in our convenings and other activities, will honor these ethics.

 

Rapid Response

NPN takes seriously any reports of racism, transphobia, homophobia, ableism, misogyny, classism, or other oppressions. If an incident arises during the conference, attendees can reach out to a member of the Rapid Response Team, a team of colleagues who have generously volunteered their time. NPN recognizes that in inviting challenging conversations we also need to create a healthy environment to do so. We aim to align this work with the principles of transformative justice that seeks resolution and transformation together rather than punishment. We believe in listening to our colleagues and trust in the validity of their experience, without defensiveness or debate. NPN does not tolerate violence or aggression at any conference activity and we reserve the right bar attendees who violate these policies.

 

Accessibility

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to fully engage. All conference meeting spaces and event venues are ADA accessible and plenary sessions will include ASL and live-captioning. Transportation is available for off-site venues; see conference schedule for details. Please contact Brynn Bradbury (brynn@federalconference.com) if you have any questions about accessibility.

Meeting Agreements

  • Be present

  • Take care of yourself and each other

  • Support all voices being heard

  • Assume positive intent

  • Try to avoid and/or explain jargon

  • Take responsibility for your words and actions

  • Be mindful of time

  • Speak from your own experience

  • W.A.I.T. – Why am I talking? Is this going to move the conversation forward?

  • Remember why we are here

  • Relax and laugh, hard work doesn’t have to feel hard

  • Don’t leave with a question

  • Speak the elephant in the room

Meeting Philosophy

We believe in…

  • Creating a safer space: We ask all attendees to question oppression openly, listen generously, and respect each other’s personal boundaries and confidentiality.
  • Critical analysis without censorship: We encourage activities and dialogues that reflect the challenging times in which we find ourselves and we support artists’ opportunities to develop and show work without artistic compromise. We strive to make space where participants can take risks while engaging each other in thoughtful critique.
  • Complexity: We recognize the complex identities we each embody and do not assume or diminish other’s perspectives.
  • Holding each other accountable: We aim for an environment where we respectfully call each other in, help each other recognize oversights, and learn together how to move toward more just and equitable words, actions, and practices.
  • Making space for learning: Disagreement, discomfort, and vulnerability are essential for growth, while defensiveness and dismissiveness inhibit learning. Allow yourself and others time and space to reflect and grow.
 

 

Presenter Recommendations

Below are some presenter recommendations for making the shared conference space more inclusive for all participants

  • Keep aisles and doorways clear for people to move. Create openings in seating arrangements.
  • Use a microphone when provided; repeat any questions/comments into the microphone.
  • Identify yourself when speaking.
  • Provide captions for photos and videos.
  • Reconsider or modify icebreakers and activities that require movement
  • Give people time to process information. Acknowledge that people have different responses to conference content and create the space for that to be discussed and addressed.
  • Don’t touch people without asking.
  • To be respectful of those with allergies and environmental sensitivities by avoiding heavily scented fragrances.

 

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation requests must be received by Friday, November 1, 2019. No refund requests will be accepted after this date.
 
All registration cancellations prior to November 1, 2019 are subject to a $100.00 USD service fee. For cancellations or questions regarding the cancellation policy, please email support@federalconference.com. 
 
Should circumstances arise that result in the cancellation or postponement of the conference, NPN will issue a full refund for registration fees but is not responsible for any travel and/or other related costs incurred by conference attendees.