Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all BTI events (including Unbounded, Ignite, Navigate Summit, Juneteenth Commemoration, Friday Meetups, and any other BTI-organized gatherings), the BTI Community Hub platform, BTI social media channels, and any other spaces operated or facilitated by Black Talent Initiative.

It applies to all participants, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, staff, and partners.

All participants are expected to contribute to a welcoming and professional environment. This includes:

• Treating all individuals with respect, dignity, and professionalism.
• Engaging in constructive, good-faith dialogue, even when perspectives differ.
• Respecting the boundaries, identities, and experiences of others.
• Being mindful of the space you occupy, and making room for others to contribute.
• Following all venue rules, event guidelines, and platform terms of service.
• Reporting conduct concerns promptly through the channels described below.

The following behaviours are prohibited in all BTI spaces:

• Harassment. Unwelcome conduct directed at any individual, including verbal, physical, or visual harassment. This includes offensive comments related to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or socioeconomic status.
• Discrimination. Exclusion, hostility, or differential treatment based on any protected characteristic.
• Intimidation and threats. Any behaviour intended to frighten, coerce, or silence another participant, whether explicit or implied.
• Unwelcome physical contact. Any physical contact without clear, affirmative consent.
• Sexual harassment. Unwelcome sexual attention, advances, or commentary in any form.
• Disruptive conduct. Sustained interruption of programming, deliberate obstruction of participation, or behaviour that materially interferes with the experience of others.
• Retaliation. Any adverse action taken against someone for reporting a concern or participating in an investigation.
• Misuse of platform. Using BTI platforms to distribute spam, malware, or content that violates our Terms of Service.

If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it as soon as possible. You can report concerns through the following channels:

• Email: info@blacktalentinitiative.network
• At events: Speak to any BTI staff member or volunteer identified by event credentials. Our team is trained to receive reports and take appropriate action.

All reports are treated confidentially and reviewed promptly. We will not disclose the identity of the reporter without their consent, except where required by law.

BTI takes all reports seriously. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, consequences may include:

• A verbal or written warning.
• Removal from the event or platform, without refund.
• Temporary or permanent suspension from future BTI events and community spaces.
• Revocation of membership or partnership status.
• Referral to law enforcement, where appropriate.

BTI reserves the right to take any action it deems necessary to maintain the safety and integrity of its community, at its sole discretion.

If you have questions about this Code of Conduct, need clarification on any point, or want to discuss a concern before filing a formal report, contact us at info@blacktalentinitiative.network.