Community Guidelines and Rules

Feedback from both members and visitors is welcome and encouraged.

Community Guidelines

Guidelines express the shared spirit and values of our chapter — how we aim to engage with one another and our community. They invite reflection, compassion, and care.

1.1 Respect and Inclusion

  • Everyone is welcome — whether you are a long-time activist or just curious about human rights.
  • We treat all people with dignity and respect, regardless of age, race, gender identity, ability, sexual orientation, class, or background.
  • We use inclusive, non-derogatory language and approach differences with curiosity rather than judgment.

1.2 Collaboration and Listening

  • We value participation from all voices and make space for quieter ones.
  • We speak from our own experience (“I” statements) and listen to understand rather than to reply.
  • We recognize that meaningful change happens through collective effort and shared leadership.

1.3 Compassion and Care

  • We understand that human rights work can involve sensitive and emotional topics.
  • We practice empathy, assume good intentions, and take care of our own wellbeing and others’.
  • We offer content warnings when discussing distressing material and step away if we need a break.

1.4 Learning and Accountability

  • We are all learning — mistakes are opportunities for growth, not shame.
  • If harm occurs, we commit to hearing it, repairing it where possible, and improving our practice.

1.5 Non-Partisanship and Integrity

  • Our work is independent of political parties, governments, and corporations.
  • While healthy debate is welcome, partisan or campaign promotion is not appropriate in chapter spaces.
  • Despite being non-partisan, we are not neutral. This means that we take clear, evidence-based positions grounded in international law and human rights principles — fairness, equality, and justice for all

Community Rules

Rules outline specific expectations and boundaries that must be followed in all Amnesty Hamilton/Burlington spaces — online, in person, or hybrid. These help us maintain safety, respect, and alignment with Amnesty International’s mission.

2.1 Respectful Conduct

  • No harassment, hate speech, bullying, or discriminatory remarks of any kind.
  • Personal attacks, interruptions, or aggressive behaviour are not tolerated.
  • Respect others’ physical and emotional boundaries — consent and comfort matter.

2.2 Privacy and Confidentiality

  • Stories and opinions shared in meetings or events stay in the group unless permission is given to share them.
  • Ask before taking or posting photos or videos.
  • Do not share personal contact information or identifying details of others without consent.

2.3 Online and Social Media Spaces

Online posts or comments connected to Amnesty Hamilton/Burlington should:

  • Be factual, respectful, and aligned with Amnesty’s human rights mission.
  • Avoid partisan, defamatory, or inflammatory content.
  • Credit others’ work and avoid sharing unverified information.
  • Those posting on behalf of the chapter must coordinate with group leads and follow Amnesty’s communications guidance.
  • Personal accounts should not present personal opinions as official Amnesty positions.

2.4 Event and Meeting Etiquette

  • Be on time when possible, and let organizers know if you need to leave early.
  • Give others space to speak; step up if you haven’t spoken, and step back if you have.
  • Avoid side conversations and distractions during group discussions.
  • Refrain from using substances or being under the influence during events.
  • Follow the facilitator’s directions, especially around safety, accessibility, and respect.

2.5 Safe and Inclusive Environment

  • Content warnings should be used before discussing graphic or potentially triggering material.
  • Participants may take breaks or leave at any time without needing to explain.
  • Accessibility needs will be accommodated whenever possible — please let us know in advance if you have specific requirements.

2.6 Representation and Media

  • Only designated members or invited speakers may speak to media or partners on behalf of Amnesty Hamilton/Burlington.
  • If approached by media, please refer them to a chapter lead or Amnesty Canada’s Communications team.

2.7 Addressing Concerns or Conflicts

  • If something feels unsafe or inappropriate, please reach out privately to the event facilitator, chapter lead, or another trusted member.
  • Conflicts will be approached with empathy and confidentiality, using a restorative and educational approach whenever possible.
  • Repeated or serious violations of these rules may result in being asked to leave an event or losing participation privileges.