Community Safety Policies
As our parties gain popularity and the culture continues to evolve, we understand that some people may be watching from the sidelines, curious and eager to attend but uncertain about our safety policies. Given the sensitive nature of what can unfold at sex-positive events, we want to share our guidelines with you to ensure that you feel safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy yourself at future gatherings.
In Eora/Sydney, we have established a membership application process for our sauna parties that covers boundaries, consent, and community agreements in detail.
All Eora/Sydney performers, team members, and DJs are required to sign a similar agreement form before participating in our events.
We are planning to introduce this same process in Naarm/Melbourne soon.
Procedure for Addressing Allegations of Misconduct
Firstly, we recognize that each situation is unique, and these matters can be incredibly complex, requiring careful, individualized attention. This policy serves as a foundational guideline to ensure we have a clear starting point for addressing all cases.
Artists We Book
If an allegation is brought against someone we've booked, our process involves the following steps to ensure an informed and fair decision:
Gathering Information: We will speak directly with the accused to understand their perspective, including details of the incident(s) such as timing, context, and any mitigating or aggravating factors.
Accountability Check: We will assess the accused’s current stance on accountability and how they have or are willing to address the incident.
Community Impact Assessment: We will evaluate how continuing or discontinuing collaboration with this individual would affect our community.
Decision-Making: Based on the above information, we will decide whether to continue booking and platforming this person.
Before raising the matter with the accused, we will ask the accuser:
To provide specific details of the allegation.
For their consent to bring the issue to the accused.
What outcome do they hope to achieve by informing us?
Attendees
For allegations against an attendee, the process is as follows:
Initial Information: We will ask the person making the allegation for details and whether they prefer the matter to be handled internally within our community or reported to the police. If they choose to handle it internally, we’ll inquire about their preferred resolution and whether they consent to us contacting the accused.
Discussion with the Accused: If the accuser gives consent, we will reach out to the accused and discuss the incident. We tell the accused to refrain from attending a set number of events to allow for a period of reflection.
Exclusion or Accountability:
If the victim does not wish for the accused to return, the accused will be permanently banned from attending our events.
If the victim prefers an accountability process, the accused must engage in self-reflection and provide a written statement detailing what they’ve learned, how they would handle a similar situation differently in the future, and how they plan to respect boundaries moving forward.
Accountability Measures: We will reach out to the accused's references (or ask for new ones if needed) to act as accountability buddies during the person’s reintegration into our events.
Final Steps: We will update the individual who initially raised the concern about the outcome. If they feel comfortable and agree, we may permit the accused to attend future events under the agreed conditions.
As with everything, these policies will continue to evolve and improve. So far, this process has supported several participants, and we hope it continues to uphold the integrity of our events and community. If you've experienced anything unsafe at our events, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at theravetemple [at] gmail.com.