Anti-Harassment Policy
Preamble
In adopting this statement, the Society of American Foresters (SAF) establishes the rules for acceptable behavior of its membership. In doing so, unacceptable behaviors outlined in this statement are subject to the SAF Code of Ethics. Specifically, Principle 6: Professional and civic behavior must be based on honesty, fairness, good will, and respect for the law. We pledge to conduct ourselves in a civil and dignified manner; to respect the needs, contributions, and viewpoints of others; and to give due credit to others for their methods, ideas, or assistance. Members or Guests who have a reasonable belief that they or any other member or guest have been the victim of harassment, bullying, or discrimination, or any other violation of the rules herein, are encouraged and expected to report the conduct to the SAF Ethics Committee.
Statement
The Society of American Foresters is committed to inclusion in our leadership, membership, programs, and activities. SAF strives to promote an environment designed to embrace our differences in which all community members are welcomed and valued. Successfully engaging people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives strengthens our communities, provides essential resources, and creates thriving forests. Broad participation by diverse people within our membership, the forestry community, partner organizations, landowners, and other stakeholders is essential to fulfilling our mission.
We all have a responsibility in creating the environment of our professional association. All forms of discrimination, harassment, and bullying are prohibited in any SAF activity. This applies to all participants in all settings and locations where SAF work and associated activities are conducted, including committee meetings, workshops, conferences, and other work and social functions where employees, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, or guests are present.
Discrimination is prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups of people based on their race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
Other types of harassment include any verbal or physical conduct directed at individuals or groups of people because of their race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
Bullying is unwelcome, aggressive behavior involving the use of influence, threat, intimidation, ridicule or coercion to dominate others in the professional environment. Bullying behavior may go beyond characteristics protected by applicable laws, including but not limited to, political views, dress, or other outward physical appearances.