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Last fall, Gilbert Rozon, founder of the Just For Laughs comedy festival, stepped down amid accusations from several women of sexual misconduct, which he denies.

Photo by Comedy at Wee Johnny's/Facebook

Winnipeg comedian Tim Gray, who produces shows at Wee Johnny’s, said he felt compelled to take action to let visitors know that any offensive behaviour would not be tolerated under his watch.

A sign will soon be put up near the bar that says sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, ableism, body shaming, unwanted touching and physical intimidation will not be tolerated. “We want to foster a respectful community of crowds and comics,” the sign reads.

Gray said the policy is not meant to be “pro-censorship.” He said he has no problem with comics touching on “taboo” subjects or “uncomfortable truths,” as long as they do so in a meaningful way that doesn’t put down marginalized members of society.

“If you’re going to talk about disadvantaged members of our society, don’t use them as a punch line,” he said.

“(Critics) think I’m trying to create a room here where challenging conversations can’t take place, which is the opposite of what I’m trying to do.”

If you’re going to talk about disadvantaged members of our society, don’t use them as a punch line

Toronto comedian Chantel Marostica, who produces Queer and Present Danger, a touring LGBTQ comedy show, applauds Gray’s decision to put the policy in writing.

“For him to just set the bar that we want everyone welcome here and that you can make things funny without making other people uncomfortable … I think that’s great,” Marostica said.