Key City Steampunk Code of Conduct

The main objective of the Key City Steampunk Convention is for all attendees to enjoy themselves in a safe and fun environment.  Over the past three years the event has endeavored to ensure that everyone enjoys the finest this unique community has to offer.  In order to continue that tradition of providing a fulfilling and exciting time, we felt a written Code of Conduct was necessary to continue that tradition.  This Code of Conduct exists to ensure that all attendees are fully aware of what behavior is expected by all in attendance, to fellow attendees, as well as non-attendees in the venue, and the consequences of behavior that is in violation of the policy.  Please be sure to read this policy and understand how it applies to you.  Any questions or requests for clarification can be addressed to the following email keycitysteampunk@gmail.com

• Who Goes There?: All Attendees will be provided a badge upon entry.  It is the responsibility of the Attendee to wear their badge visibly and at all times in the venue.  In the event you misplace or lose your badge a replacement can be issued by requesting one at the convention check-in desk.   This ensures that everyone knows you are supposed to be there and not an advance scout for the Dark Gods.
• Manners Maketh the Man, Woman, and Automata: We ask that all Attendees are mindful of those around them.    Steampunk is a diverse group, and that is one of the main factors that had drawn most of us into this amazing community.   We vary in race, age, belief, sexual orientation, personal style, body size, ability, and so many more other variants too numerous to fully list.  When attending, be mindful of not only who you are specifically interacting with, but those around you as well.  We are an inclusive group by nature and should be celebrating everyone’s own uniqueness.   Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ageist, or any other demeaning or degrading commentary or remarks have no place here.  This additionally applies to costumes, buttons and any disruptive behavior.  Racist, distruptful, or hateful costuming or behavior will have no home here.
• How Close is Too Close: There will be times throughout the event when attendees will be in close proximity to each other.  Be sure you are being mindful of other’s personal space, and do not invade anyone’s personal space.  We are all a friendly bunch, but under no circumstances should you be touching, kissing, or hugging someone without their clear and explicit verbal consent.  Sexual harassment, whether physical, verbal, or otherwise will not be tolerated.  Physical violence and threats of are equally not acceptable and will not be tolerated.  We take such misconduct very seriously and instances of any type of threat will be addressed immediately on being reported. Additionally there will be those who have opted for “larger than life” costumes and props, please be mindful that added appendages are not invading someone’s personal space without your knowledge.
• Obey the Rules: While it may feel as though you have been transported to another world while attending, the real world still exists. This means that the rules are there for your protection and need to be followed.  This includes any and all hotel, state, and federal laws.  Do not bring illegal drugs.  Do not cheat or steal.  Alcohol is only for those 21 years or older and those old enough to partake must do so responsibly.  Do not claim something as yours that isn’t (this includes props and creations).  Do not trespass or damage any property.  Be mindful of children as this is a family friendly event.  Treat the facilities and those working and attending it with respect.  Please be mindful that the hotel staff is there working and should be treated with respect.
• Sometimes you just have to be blunt: Everyone wants to have a good time and enjoy themselves. Being a jerk prevents that from happening.  Being a jerk is not adhering to this Code of Conduct.  Being a jerk will result in you being asked to leave.  Don’t be a jerk.  The Organizational Staff reserves the right to remove anyone not adhering to the policies listed.

We take the safety of our attendees very seriously.  If at any time anyone feels that these rules have been violated, and feel harassed, harmed, demeaned, or unsafe it is imperative that the unwelcome behavior be reported to any of the Key City Steampunk Convention Organizational Staff immediately.   The same should apply if such behavior is witnessed happening to someone else since as a community we need to stick together and look out for each other.  All reported instances will be investigated by the organizational management staff on a case by case basis.  As matters such as this are sensitive, investigations and any administered corrective actions may be conducted confidentially.  All reported instances will be reviewed and addressed on an independent basis and done so objectively.  If the situation warrants it, or if a clear law has been broken, the proper authorities will be notified.

THIS COC format WAS ADAPTED FROM MIKE SELINKER’S PUZZLE LEAGUE CODE OF CONDUCT.

Weapons / Costume Policy

There have been some questions regarding a weapons policy for Key City Steampunk Convention.  The following Weapons Policy has been established to provide a safe and secure environment for all.

• No real fire arms or ultra – realistic looking replicas. Local Police will treat anything that looks like a real weapon as a real weapon.
• No live steel including knives.
• Nerf and Water guns that are not identical to real firearms are permitted, however, should not contain projectile ammunition or water.
• Prop swords, axes, machetes, spears, halberds, glaives, and any other thing you can think of must be constructed of wood or foam only and not present  a serious danger.
• Attendees must keep control of their “weapons” at all times. Allowing someone to hold or “use” your weapon is done so at your own risk.
• Flamethrowers are not permitted.
• Being Naked is not a costume.
• All props must be checked in and inspected at the Prop Check Area of Registration.  Props will be inspected on a case by case basis.  While we understand the time and effort that is put into these creations, it will be required that all checked in props be “peace tied” to identify they have been checked.  This will include the addition of a brightly colored zip tie.  All reasonable efforts to allow the tie to not interfere with the overall aesthetic of the prop will be made, however this is mandatory and must be readily visible.  All Nerf and water guns will be tied to prevent operation.  Management and Staff will be looking for these throughout the event, and if missing, the owner must be escorted back to the check in to receive a tie.  If you are uncomfortable with this process, do not bring it.  In the event such an item is unable to be made “safe” or properly and visibly tagged, it will be considered prohibited and asked to be removed.
• Masks and helmets are permitted, however, for your own safety, must not obstruct your vision and be easily removable.
• If you are unsure of a specific item, or have any questions, contact keycitysteampunk@gmail.com.

Photography Policy

Who doesn’t want to have their picture taken in costume at a convention?  Especially after all the care and effort that has been put into it’s design and details?  We at Key City Steampunk Convention felt it necessary to put together a policy regarding photographs/video  to ensure everyone was aware of our expectations.  Pictures and Video are of course encouraged, however, there are a few points that need to be made clear

• There will be a Staff Photographer at the event this year, taking pictures of the events, including its attendees.  This means you may be photographed as part of a “candid” shot of the event, without you being aware of it.  Please be mindful of this throughout your time with us.  The resulting photos may and will be used for future posts, advertising.  We also have photography vendors in attendance that would be excited for you to use their services.
• Personal photography / videography is encouraged, however, under no circumstances is photography for profit permitted unless you have submitted and been approved for Vending at the event.  Violation of this policy may and can result in removal from the event, current and in the future.  We have structured a specific vending fee for this type of “roaming vendor” and information regarding this can be obtained by submitting a Vendor Application.
• When taking photos of costumes or fellow attendees, personal photographers must obtain consent from the subject.
• Please be mindful of people taking photographs during the event.  Common courtesy in not interrupting someone taking a picture should be do different than interrupting someone’s conversation.
• As with all of Key City Steampunk Convention’s policies – if you have any questions please email those queries to keycitysteampunk@gmail.com