Wisconsin Games Alliance Code of Conduct
The Wisconsin Games Alliance (WGA) is dedicated to advancing the games and related industries in Wisconsin and the broader Midwest and beyond. We believe that game development and enjoyment is for everyone.
To that end, attending, volunteering, staffing, or exhibiting at any Wisconsin Games Alliance affiliated event, including M+DEV, constitutes an agreement to abide by the Code of Conduct below at all WGA-related venues, including online, and at social events. Violating the Code of Conduct can cause action up to and including ejection from the event without a refund.
HARASSMENT
The WGA works toward a harassment-free experience for all, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, age, origin, religion, class, or other marginalized identity.
The WGA’s definition of harassment includes:
Stalking
Gender policing (including in all bathrooms) and other forms of body policing
Unwelcome photography or recording
Sustained disruption of talks or other events
Inappropriate physical contact
Unwelcome sexual attention
Deliberate intimidation, including threats and slurs
Verbal or written comments or displayed images that reinforce harmful stereotypes
Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. This includes staff, exhibitors, speakers, attendees, and volunteers.
The WGA’s definition of harassment may not be the same as the legal definition, and it specifically does not encompass respectful disagreement and good faith critique.
Because any Code of Conduct has the potential to be used as a tool for harassment itself, we assert that use of this code to deride, silence, abuse, or police others will not be tolerated.
Incidents occurring at WGA events including but not limited to conferences, social events and professional development events:
If a participant engages in harassing behavior at any WGA event, the designated WGA safety officer may take action they deem appropriate, including counseling, warning or expulsion of the offending party from the event without refund of event fees or tuition.
If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact the event designated safety officer(s) or any available event staff immediately. The WGA will make reasonable efforts to make the safety officer(s) and staff easily identifiable and available. You can also use the contact form on this page to report any concerns related to this code of conduct at any time, including after the convention has ended. General concerns about the climate at M+DEV may also be via the form on this page.
Event staff and designated the safety officer(s) will assist participants in contacting hotel/venue security or local law enforcement as needed. As appropriate and needed event staff and safety officers will provide escorts, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the event.
Incidents Outside of WGA Events
The WGA will not arbitrate personal feuds. If, however, conflicts escalate to the point that they violate our Code of Conduct or policies, the WGA safety officer(s) may become involved.
For example, we reserve the right to bar entry to events for people who have a documented history of abusive behavior at other venues or conventions.
WGA also considers online behavior to be just as important as offline behavior. Doxxing, outing, online harassment, stalking, or deliberately connecting a pseudonym with a wallet name are all considered violations of our Code of Conduct and will be considered with the same seriousness as in-person actions and will be considered accordingly.
Important Contact Information
Emergencies: 911
Including requests for: Law Enforcement, Ambulance, Fire
Dane County Rape Crisis Center Crisis Line: (608) 251-7273
Journey Mental Health Center 24-hour Hotline: (608) 280-2600
BADGES
At WGA events, name badges must be worn at all times. Failure to wear your name badge may prevent you from gaining access to venue activities and may be cause for removal from the the venue. Keeping your badge is your responsibility. Replacement badges are available (associated costs may apply).
VENUES
Wherever we are holding an event, please be respectful of the venue. Be gracious to the staff working, do not destroy or damage equipment, and be mindful of noise levels when in public areas of the venue. Disruptive attendees may be ejected from the venue without refund at the discretion of event organizers or the venue staff.
BELONGINGS
You are responsible for your belongings. The WGA, its organizers, its staff, and the venue are not responsible for your belongings or any lost or stolen property. If you find any lost property, please turn it in to the to WGA or venue staff.
MINORS
Attendance of minors at WGA events is at the sole discretion of the WGA and the event venue policies. In general minors attending WGA events must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult.