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It's a casual, nonjudgmental group that provides vegan support and offers opportunities for members to connect with like-minded individuals.



Vegan: Someone who respects the rights and autonomy of other earthlings, and opts not to participate in their exploitation or killing on any level, as much as is possible and practicable, in a society that is foundationally built on the flesh, bones and blood of animals. While a vegan diet is the most well known aspect of vegan daily decision making, vegan consciousness and conduct is comprehensive in our behaviors and includes what kinds of products we consume or wear and what types activities we support and participate in entertainment, sports, spiritual etc. We support sanctuaries (Sunrise Sanctuary) and animal-free performance art/circuses such as Circe De Soleil when there are no non-human performers.



Columbus Vegan Meetup Policy, Objective and Conduct

The Columbus Vegan Meetup community is dedicated to providing a safe environment allowing a culture where all attendees at our events are able to participate fully and comfortably. Consequently, any intimidating, threatening, antagonizing, sexual or other types of harassing conduct during our Meetup events are prohibited. This important policy is to apply to both organizers & attendees.



Meetup events include any gathering sponsored, supported, or hosted by the Columbus Vegan Meetup that can be attended by our members or the general public, and that event organizers have control over conduct at the Meetup events. The Columbus Vegan Meetup will attempt to work with other groups who will support our policy or have similar policies in place for those Meetup events we may co-sponsor where applicable.



PROHIBITED CONDUCT



In general, prohibited conduct includes any abusive conduct that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with another person’s ability to enjoy and participate in our events and social gatherings. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, yelling at or threatening other attendees, or any other disruptive behavior and otherwise abusive conduct. As a vegan platform, any promotion and/or use of animal exploitation/killing is in direct violation to our group's purpose. While we support venues and events that support our community, there is an important line that must be clear: Promoting "veg" messaging (which is ambiguous and confusing and leaves many people thinking animal products that are not flesh based such as eggs or dairy are still viable options), as an acceptable means of advocacy, is to promote animal exploitation and will not be tolerated. While we absolutely support Veg Fests and Meatless Monday's that provide vegan options and platforms for sharing vegan ideas, we do not promote a veg messaging methodology, we promote veganism and vegan messaging only.



Vegan-safe Environment: While many of our meet-ups are integrated into the non-vegan cultural norm (held at non-vegan venues), bringing or consuming animal products (animal based foods, body care products, clothing (fur, feathers, leather, wool, honey) etc.) at/to our events is also antithetical to the purpose our group and will offend our members. Example: It is inappropriate to consume non-vegan meal options within the group while attending a vegan meetup hosted event. While we understand our participants are on varying degrees of a vegan consciousness spectrum, we request participants be mindful of the culture they are participating in.



Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, harassment based on

race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, or veteran status, we affirm that diversity truly encompasses an infinite range of unique experiences and characteristics, as provided by local, state, or federal law. For example, abusive conduct directed at someone because of his or her race is prohibited. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment. For example, unwelcome sexual attention, lewd, sexual solicitations, staring, stalking, and physical contact such as pinching, grabbing, rubbing and/or pressing up against, or groping are prohibited. Continuing to contact people who make it clear they are not interested in personally interacting is also grounds for corrective measures.



We are a diverse group with a wide range of perspectives and ideals who have become vegan or are exploring veganism for various reasons. Embracing diversity enhances the effectiveness of the Columbus Vegan Meetup community by using the talents of people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our vision of diversity fosters effective communication, leadership opportunities, and thought-provoking discourse, resulting in a productive and supportive learning environment and improved quality of life for all members.



Critical examination of conflicting beliefs, including critical commentary on another person’s views, does not, by itself, constitute hostile conduct or harassment. The purpose of this policy is to promote the free exchange of ideas, not to inhibit it or retaliate in an aggressive manner.



CONSEQUENCES OF HOSTILE OR HARASSING CONDUCT



If a person engages in hostile or harassing conduct, appropriate remedial action will be taken, which may include, but is not limited to, being asked to leave the event. Threats of hostile conduct that are made prior to an event will result in exclusion from our meetup events.



The precise remedy for hostile or harassing conduct will depend on an evaluation of all relevant circumstances, such as the severity of the conduct, and prior violations by the person engaging in the offensive conduct.



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