The British Association of Planetaria (BAP) is a network of planetarium professionals. Our membership is focussed in the United Kingdom but welcomes anyone who has an interest in engaging with us. The diversity of experiences, differences and unique perspectives found within our community allows us to grow and find success in our shared mission to enhance the worlds understanding and enjoyment of our universe. Therefore, we are committed to respecting and embracing equity, diversity & inclusion in people, ideas and opinions. Providing a welcoming environment for all members of our international community.

Our Code of Conduct is in place to ensure a safe environment and the best possible experience for all BAP members. Our goal is to develop and maintain a culture and climate within the association where all community members experience a sense of belonging and engagement. We want to create a place where everyone’s well-being is valued and supported through respectful, authentic, and positive interactions with other members. Therefore, we do not allow any form of bullying, discrimination, harassment, racism, retaliation, threatening behaviour, or any other inappropriate conduct that violates BAP standards.

The BAP Code of Conduct apples to all BAP-related activities, including conference, events, online communication platforms, member interactions and any situation where members may be representing the British Association of Planetaria.

The Code of Conduct is it place to reassure members that we wish to maintain a professional environment that is positive and supportive of all involved. This Code of Conduct is not intended to be exhaustive or a complete set of guidelines/rules and therefore other forms of misconduct not listed within could prompt action being taken by the BAP council ranging from suspension from activities up to and including removal from the British Association of Planetaria.

BAP Code of Conduct grievance form

BAP Commitment

As members of the BAP community,

• -        We respect the Code of Conduct and act with integrity and professionalism.
• -        We treat everyone with respect.
• -        We embrace diversity and are mindful of all audiences in our presentations, demonstrations, and conversations.
• -        We act in good faith and do not make knowingly false statements, allegations, or accusations against others.
• -        We uphold these values and set an example for those around us.

We respect members of our community will come from a diverse set of cultures and therefore it is important to recognise that behaviour and language that is acceptable in one, may not be acceptable in another. To the best of our ability, we use discretion to ensure that our words and actions communicate a respect for others.

Definition of Harassment

In general, harassment is any form of excessive and/or persistent conduct that causes alarm or distress, whether based on race, ethnicity, religion or belief, colour, national origin, age, disability, illness, impairment, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, gender identity and expression, parental status, pregnancy and maternity, marital status, political affiliation, military and veteran status, mental health status, socioeconomic status or background, neurotype, physical appearance, or any other reason. Harassment may include any excessive forms of unwelcome attention, pressure or intimidation.

General Conduct

In order to maintain a professional atmosphere that is safe and welcoming to all, the British Association of Planetaria is committed to ensuring all voices are heard and all interactions are respectful. As such, BAP members make a good faith effort to do the following:

• -        Be mindful with our words and actions; exercise good judgement and character
• -        Approach situations and conversations with an open mind
• -        Be aware that our assumptions may impact others
• -        Give others the chance to speak
• -        Accept that others’ lives and experiences are different from our own
• -        Accept that others’ boundaries (emotional, physical, etc) may be different from our own
• -        Remind ourselves that inclusion is about promoting mutual respect
• -         Be accountable for our actions
• -        Practice patience and empathy, and provide opportunities to make amends where appropriate.  

BAP understands that given the diversity of our community, it mat be challenging to determine when our actions will have a negative impact on others. It is wise to think critically about our behaviour and consider checking in with trusted colleagues to gauge whether our self-assessment is accurate. In the case of unintended offensive behaviour, an apology, recognition of that offense, and commitment to changing behaviour in the future is key to maintaining an atmosphere of respect.

At Conferences & Events

Everyone attending BAP events is entitled to an environment:

• -        Free from intimidation or threats
• -        Free from physical assault of any type
• -        Free from unwanted sexual attention or contact
• o   E.g., sexually suggestive comments or images, innuendos, or non-consensual touching
• -        Free from bullying
• o   E.g., using abusive or insulting language or spreading rumours

At conferences and events, speakers should be mindful of potentially offensive actions, language or imagery used in their presentations. If the present decides to include any potentially offensive materials to convey a message, we respectfully ask that you warn audiences, providing them an opportunity to avoid seeing or hearing the material.

All BAP event attendees are expected to play a role in creating a safe and inviting atmosphere. If anyone is asked to stop an inappropriate behaviour, we will do so immediately. Any individual asked to stop any behaviour but disagreeing with the need to do so, should cease the behaviour and then may raise the issue with the BAP Equity, Diversity & Inclusion officer.

Reporting Procedure

The BAP council is committed to supporting and fostering healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and a strong community. In order for the council to take action on an incident or violation of the Code of Conduct, a percipient witness (someone who directly witnessed or someone who was directly involved in the event) need to document the incident or violation by submitting a grievance via The BAP Grievance Form.

Generally, in order to protect involved parties, detailed public statements about Code of Conduct incidents will not be made. The council will communicate any necessary details with authorised individuals on a case-by-case basis.

Anti-retaliation & Whistle blower Policy

The BAP council is committed to an environment that protects anyone who makes a report or participants in an investigation pertaining to alleged violations of the BAP Code of Conduct, policies, and/or procedures. BAP prohibits retaliation against anyone who submits a complaint, states intentions to make a complaint or is involved in a complaint investigation.

This policy is crucial to maintaining an atmosphere in which people feel safe to raise questions and concerns. If a report is submitted regarding retaliation, the incident may be treated as harassment and the retaliator may be subject to disciplinary action.

Confidentiality Policy

Grievances and complaints submitted to the BAP Council are considered confidential and will not be discussed outside the investigation process. The act of intentionally disclosing confidential information to unauthorized persons or causing information to be compromised through gross negligence is grounds for discipline, up to and including removal from the British Association of Planetaria.

This code of conduct has been been adapted from the International Planetarium Society.