CPHA seeks to provide an environment in which diverse participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual human respect. We recognize a shared responsibility to create and hold that environment for the benefit of all. 

Harassment and discrimination are unacceptable.

It includes, though is not limited to, spoken or written comments, non-verbal expressions, or imagery that demeans, disparages a person or group, or imposes or excludes a viewpoint, based on:

• race, ethnicity, or native language
• sex, gender, gender identity or expression
• language
• sexual orientation
• physical or mental disability
• physical appearance, body size, or presentation
• age
• religious or political beliefs, including lack of religious beliefs
• marital or family status
• nationality, citizenship status, or geographic location
• employment or military status
• socioeconomic status

Respect freedom of expression.

• Foster useful and dynamic discussions and engage in a respectful dialogue.
  • Accept critique and offer it constructively. 
  • Approach discussions with an open mind and be willing to learn
  • Discussions should be framed as openly and inclusively as possible. 
• Encourage spirited discussion and debate.
  • Disagreeing with an idea is different from attacking an individual, especially since discussion topics can sometimes be challenging. 
  • CPHA promotes genuine inquiry that can build trusting relationships and a safe, respectful, and supportive environment, even in times of complex change. 

Honor intellectual property with integrity and give credit where it is due. 

• It is the user’s responsibility to obtain permission for any material they post that is not their own. 
• Please include copyright notices where appropriate, ask for creator information where unknown, and be prepared to include credits if they are found after you post.

Practice respectful communication. It is a value CPHA won’t compromise on.

• Take responsibility for the impact of communications.
  • Impact matters more than intent.
  • Be aware of how word choice, connotations, or images may be perceived by others.
• Listen as much as you share
  • Remember that other participants may have expertise you are unaware of. 
  • Make sure conversations are inclusive, and practice active listening.
• When you see content that is problematic, you may address it either publicly or privately.
  • Acknowledge that your response is part of a respectful discussion. 
  • Pointing out factually erroneous or offensive comments keeps the space safe and helps build a stronger community. These are opportunities to educate – and to learn.
• Speak from your own experience and avoid making generalizations.
  • If you’re not sure whether something is correct, you can ask the community for resources.
• Respect other people’s pronouns, preferred names, and forms of address.
  • Consider using gender-neutral collective nouns/pronouns when addressing groups. For example, try “everyone” or “folks” instead of “guys.”
• Ensure your content is as accessible as possible.

For more information, view the CPHA Code of Conduct here.