Summary:
Four points
1. good faith mistake ≠ bad faith decption/harmful act
Making a mistake is not the same as harmful patterns and acts, trust yourself if things don't seem right, or safe.
2. if in doubt, check it out
Get the data and don't take things at face value, gut instincts exist for a reason after eons of human development.
3. see something, say something
No legitimate operation will be undone by one phone call, one email, or one social media post. It's also perfectly valid to walk away and not involve self at all with something with red flags.
4. empower self & others
Awareness and supporting each other is top thing we can all do, and friendships endure honest concerns – after all it’s just us, and there are a lot more of us.
Some important context, this website is sharing information from over 30 years of experiences in SW Ontario fandom.
The vast and overwhelming majority of experiences are wonderful, creative, funny, and very positive.
Recently over the last five years or so have shown an apparent increase in incidents, this is partly the inspiration to develop this project.
Make a phone call, ask via email, post on social media: No legitimate operation will be undone by one phone call, one email, or one social media post.
Every community has less than desirable components, while fandom events and gatherings are amongst the safest and most welcoming I've experienced it's sadly not excempted.
Through observation, communication, advocacy, and compassion, we can all work together to keep the fandom community the safe and inclusive environment we deserve.
This website is here for that, I'm glad to do my part.