Natural Channels Systems Conference – Statement of Collegial Conduct and Respectful Exchange
The Natural Channels Systems Conference Organizing Committee and members of the community affirm that the conduct of our work and the communication of knowledge involve a wide variety of ethical considerations, including the pursuit of diversity and non-discrimination. The broadest purpose of this statement is to encourage all involved to consider and critically engage with these matters in their professional practices.
As participants Natural Channels Systems Conferences, it is our responsibility to uphold the dignity of all persons, to strive for diversity and equity (including a diversity of intellectual commitments and projects, under the banner of academic freedom), and to respectfully address colleagues, peers, and the wider public in written, spoken, and electronic communication. Collegiality is integral to written and in-person exchange, and this expression reflects our commitment to our discipline, to the research and informed views of other working in this community, including students, and to the experiences and perspectives of the wider public.
The Natural Channels Systems Conference Organizing Committee is also committed to ensuring safe, respectful, and informed interaction among all members and participants. Harassment of others in any form is condemned, and substantive efforts should be made at every juncture to foster accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. As we work toward environments free of discrimination, we must also support victims of harassment.
Respect or civility do not imply homogeneity or the absence of disagreement. But we must also be aware of and speak to implicit bias, institutional discrimination, and other less overt practices. Particular attention should be paid in this regard to supporting and recognizing undergraduate and graduate students, precariously employed participants, and members of underrepresented groups.
The predominance of electronic forms of communication raises particular challenges for professional conduct, as these can undermine community by facilitating the wide and sometimes anonymous dissemination of statements that are hurtful, embarrassing, or of unreliable veracity. Therefore, Natural Channels Systems Conference participants should not use electronic communication systems with the intent to embarrass, intimidate, or misrepresent (i.e., ‘cyberbullying’).
(Adapted from the Canadian Association of Geographers – https://www.cag-acg.ca/)
We welcome feedback on this statement, which was adopted unanimously by the Natural Channels Systems Conference Organizing Committee in April 2023. We consider it a ‘living document’. Please send comments to info@naturalchannels.ca