Songsmiths Safer Spaces Policy

We want people of all gender identities, abilities, ages, cultures, and sexualities will feel welcome to participate in Songsmiths, therefore any form of discrimination is not acceptable. We have no tolerance for violence and language or behaviour that may perpetuate oppression. Please note: It is not the role of the Songsmiths to censor speech and will not attempt to shield its audience from ideas or opinions that they disagree with. While our audience is free to criticize and contest views expressed on the podcast, they may not interfere with the freedom of others to express their views. All programming decisions are made in consideration of these concerns using the fullest extent of our knowledge.

We reserve the right to remove any episode on the podcast or person not cooperating within these guidelines from our events.

While we recognize no space can be completely safe and free from oppression, we would like this space to be welcoming, and engaging for everyone. We encourage everyone participating in Songsmiths events and services to be proactive in creating an atmosphere where the safety of others is valued.

If at any time you are made to feel uncomfortable or unsafe, please let Kwiat know. Any concern brought to our attention will be taken seriously and addressed as immediately as possible. We are committed to community building and hold restorative justice values. Each situation will be assessed on an individual basis.

We will begin challenging ourselves, and our own privileges or biases. We will recognize audience and participants by using the correct pronouns, and refrain from using gendered language. We will recognize our audience’s barriers or struggles by providing judgement-free inclusion. We will listen to each other by providing a space for everyone’s voice to be heard and not silenced. We will continue to work towards having a safe space by learning from, supporting, encouraging and teaching one another.

We welcome the continuing discussion and improvement of this policy. If you have any questions, please use the contact form here.

Thanks for your help, understanding and support.

Last Updated: November 23, 2020