GRC encourages open and honest intellectual debate as part of a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at every conference. GRC asks each Chair to foster rigorous analysis of all science presented or discussed in a manner respectful to all conferees. To maintain an open and respectful community of scientists and engineers, GRC does not tolerate illegal or unprofessional behavior at any conference site, including violations of applicable laws pertaining to sale or consumption of alcohol, destruction of property, or harassment of any kind, including sexual harassment. Harassment or harassing behavior includes the use of epithets or slurs, derogatory jokes or comments, and repeated attempts to make contact with another individual who has indicated that the contact is unwelcome. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexual assault and other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. GRC condemns illegal or unprofessional acts or comments that discriminate against another person by reason of his or her gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, ethnicity, age, or disability. GRC reviews allegations of any such behavior on a case-by-case basis, and violations may result in cancellation of a conference or the prohibition on future attendance by particular individuals.
Immediate reporting to the Conference Chair, Venue Manager, or GRC President (president@grc.org) using the Violation of Code of Conduct Report Form is important to address a problem and allow GRC the opportunity to properly assess the situation and seek resolution of that problem while being sensitive to the concerns of all who are affected. Unless advised otherwise by the GRC President, the Chair will be expected to seek relevant facts from all parties involved, including initiating private discussions with those who complain about the behavior and with those charged with the behavior. Additional public or private conversations with those who observed the situation may be appropriate. There also may be times when it is incumbent upon the Chair to exercise his, her or their own judgment by interrupting a speaker or addressing behavior that, when construed in the entire context of the circumstances surrounding the person making the remarks or acting out, is considered clearly unwelcome or objectionable to others at a conference.
Individuals who have questions, concerns or complaints related to harassment or discrimination can also file a report with the HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) or notify NIH about concerns of harassment or discrimination at any NIH-supported conferences. Seeking assistance from the conference organizer in no way prohibits filing complaints with HHS OCR.
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