Skepticamp Ohio 2012 Statement

The Trustees of Columbus Skeptic hold a firm commitment to the idea that the attendees at our events have an expectation and a right to discuss Sketpticism and science in a non-hostile environment. To that end we implemented a strict anti-harassment policy for SkeptiCamp 2012.

Unfortunately there were two events in which an attendee made a female presenter (and in one case many of the female attendees) uncomfortable. The first event was addressed quietly and discreetly. We explained to the attendee that the comment made was inappropriate, why it was inappropriate and requested that he refrain from making similar comments. The offenders in the second incident however, seemed to understand that they were doing something very inappropriate by handing one of our keynote speakers a card advertising their swinger lifestyle. This should be clear from our anti-harassment policies, but if it isn't: Propositioning members, guests, organizers or speakers at an event for sex is not acceptable behavior and will not be tolerated.

The organizers never really got the chance to properly address the couple that propositioned our speaker since they left immediately after giving her the card. The offenders have been informed via email that their behavior was inappropriate, and that failure to follow our anti-harassment policies in the future would mean that they are not welcome at Columbus Skeptic events.