2023 Symposium Code of Conduct

The Joint Symposium of ISEB and ISSM is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, genetic information, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. We will not tolerate harassment of Symposium delegates and their accompanying guests in any form. 

Although there may be a limited amount of alcoholic beverages available during some events of the Symposium, ISEB and ISSM are not responsible for the individual intake of the delegates and their guests. Recreational drugs are prohibited, per Canadian law.

If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the Symposium Organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the symposium without refund. Note that participants with guests (spouses, children, other) are considered fully responsible for the behavior of their guest(s), and may be sanctioned, too.

Harassment includes: offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, genetic information, race, ethnicity, religion, technology choices, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording (also applies to presentations with a specific “no photography” sign, see below), sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, sexual images in public spaces, and unwelcome sexual attention. Sexual language and imagery is inappropriate at any symposia venue and formal or informal events, including talks, posters, gatherings, or social media.

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of conference staff immediately. Symposium staff can be identified with their dedicated badges and can be found at the registration desk or at the stand in the poster & exhibitor hall. Symposium staff will be happy to help participants contact the venue security or local law enforcement, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the symposium.