Respect and Inclusion

Treat all attendees, guests, vendors, and staff with respect.

Discrimination, harassment, or offensive behaviour based on race, gender, religion, sexuality, disability, or any other characteristic will not be tolerated.

Be mindful of differing opinions and backgrounds, and approach others with kindness.

Harassment-Free Environment

Harassment of any kind, including but not limited to verbal abuse, discriminatory advances, inappropriate physical contact, physical conduct of a discriminatory nature, or unwanted attention, is prohibited.

This includes, but is not limited to, stalking, sexual harassment, racist, sexist, homophobic, or transphobic remarks, and intimidation.

If someone is displaying materials that could be construed as hate material that would violate or go against the BC Human Rights Charter, they could be asked to remove material or leave the festival. 

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, report any incidents to festival staff immediately.

Appropriate Behaviour

Attendees are expected to behave in a manner that is appropriate for all ages.

Please refrain from offensive or inappropriate language, gestures, and behaviour in public spaces.

People creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment by engaging in such conduct are unwelcome at the festival and will be escorted out. 

Safety and Security

Follow all safety protocols and guidelines as provided by convention staff or local authorities.

Abide by emergency evacuation procedures and stay alert to any safety concerns.

Respect the event space by not blocking exits, aisles, or fire escapes.

Reporting Misconduct

If you witness or experience any violations of this code of conduct, please report the incident to festival staff immediately.

All reports will be taken seriously and handled confidentially.

Violations may result in removal from the festival.

Compliance with Festival Rules

All attendees, staff, and participants must follow the rules of the event, including any additional guidelines that may be set by specific spaces (panels, workshops, etc.).

Failure to comply with festival rules or this code of conduct may result in removal from the event and potential future bans.

VanCAF reserves the right to revoke attending, tabling and exhibitor privileges, including removal from the festival for any exhibitors or attendees who create an unsafe space for others at the festival.

Any review of materials at the festival will be conducted by at least a majority of VanCAF board members. 

Adaptability and Updates

The organizers reserve the right to amend the code of conduct at any time to maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Any changes will be communicated promptly to attendees.