How do we handle an individual saying they feel unsafe with someone in our space? What should IFSSA do when there are harassment claims between clients/participants? Under what grounds do we take action or deny someone service – knowing that every situation is unique and requires a nuanced understanding of the individualized circumstances?
There are numerous reasons why someone's presence may compromise another person's safety, such as past or current abuse, intimidation, stalking, unwanted advances, etc.
We are a community caretaker that provides welcoming and inclusive programming to all. Our programming is meant to help people draw closer to a healthy and nurturing faith community that supports their flourishing. We believe restorative justice practices are at the heart of a healthy community.
We will work to address any safety request brought forward by a client/participant, and strive to support requests that can reasonably be accommodated.
Being people centred means…
i. We begin with belief and listening. ii. Anyone bringing forward a claim can start or stop the process at any time. iii. Anything that is disclosed will remain in confidence unless otherwise stated.* iv. That we acknowledge the harm people have experienced. v. That we provide clear & honest options.
When people come with a complaint we believe their claim but this does not mean we presume the other party's guilt. Innocence can only be displaced by clear evidence, and it is not our place to investigate claims or take a position on the truth or falsehood of accusations unless they have been admitted or proven. Our default assumption is that people are genuine, have a right to be safe, have gone through difficulty, and need our help.
We believe people can be better versions of themselves and have a responsibility to be caring community members.
IFSSA prioritizes welcoming people. We welcome people because they need our services and in a small community there are few other viable options. The limit of welcoming is observed or substantiated aggressive behaviour by staff such as verbal or physical abuse**.**
Aggressive behaviour includes verbal or emotional harassment of staff, attendees or board members when accessing IFSSA's services or programs.
We are learning, developing, and sincerely trying to improve. Our approach is derived by continuing to build on the richness of our tradition, best practices in community development & restorative justice, as well as continual learning of anti-oppression, anti-bias, and power dynamics.
Commitment means investing in restorative justice and conflict management training for our team, taking a proactive role as host, and engaging/equipping the community we serve with skills to vocalize & affirm.