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Code of Conduct

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to promote a safe, respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment at official Urban Sketchers (USk) activities and to provide a framework for addressing concerns when they arise.

Introduction

Urban Sketchers (USk) is a nonprofit, volunteer-supported global community. Volunteers generously contribute their time and expertise to organize sketchwalks, local events and sketch meetings, workshops, educational programs, and the International Urban Sketchers Symposium. This Code of Conduct applies to all participants, volunteers, organizers, chapter representatives, instructors, sponsors, board members, staff, and other individuals participating in official USk activities.

Guiding Principles

All participants in official USk activities are expected to:

  • Treat others with dignity, respect, and professionalism.
  • Communicate constructively, honestly, and courteously.
  • Foster an inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds, perspectives, identities, and experiences.
  • Follow applicable laws, venue requirements, and USk policies.
  • Act with integrity and show respect for volunteers, organizers, instructors, staff, and fellow participants.
  • Contribute to a welcoming and supportive community experience.

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are not tolerated at official USk activities:

  • Harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or personal attacks, whether in person or through email, messaging platforms, social media, or other online channels.
  • Threats, bullying, stalking, coercion, or unwanted physical, verbal, or sexual advances.
  • Deliberate disruption of workshops, sketchwalks, presentations, meetings, or community gatherings.
  • Retaliation against any person who reports a concern or participates in a Code of Conduct review process.
  • Failure to respect privacy, local laws, or venue policies when taking photographs, videos, or recordings. While reference photography is common in urban sketching, participants should obtain permission when an individual is the primary subject or is clearly identifiable.
  • Disrespectful, abusive, or aggressive behavior toward volunteers, organizers, instructors, staff, sponsors, or fellow participants.
  • Any conduct that creates an unsafe, hostile, intimidating, or unwelcoming environment.

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all official USk activities, including but not limited to:

  • The International Urban Sketchers Symposium, including workshops, sketchwalks, lectures, exhibitions, and social events.
  • Official USk regional events, meetups, and gatherings.
  • Online platforms, forums, social media channels, and communication spaces officially operated by or representing Urban Sketchers.
  • Interactions occurring in connection with official USk activities, whether in person or online.

Response and Possible Outcomes

Reports will be reviewed by the designated Response Team in accordance with established reporting procedures.

Responses will be proportionate to the nature and severity of the conduct and may include:

  • Informal conversation or clarification of expectations.
  • Verbal or written warning.
  • Facilitated discussion or mediation, where appropriate and with the consent of those involved.
  • Removal from a specific activity, workshop, or event.
  • Restrictions on participation in future USk activities.
  • Suspension or removal from volunteer or leadership responsibilities.
  • Referral to venue security, event leadership, emergency services, or relevant authorities when participant safety is at risk.

USk reserves the right to take any action deemed necessary to maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Cultural Sensitivity

Urban Sketchers is a global community that brings together people from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds.

Cultural context and differences in communication styles will be considered when evaluating concerns. However, all participants are expected to uphold standards of safety, dignity, respect, and inclusion. Cultural differences do not excuse behavior that harms, intimidates, or excludes others.