Code of Conduct for I.TH.A.C.A.

Welcome to ITHACA international festival in Athens! Our festival is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants, including performers, organisers, volunteers, and audience members. By participating in ITHACA, you agree to uphold the following principles and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

1. Guiding Principles

   • Understand ourselves as a community and respect each other as human beings without discrimination or oppression.

   • Commit to fostering an environment of mutual respect, well-being, and inclusivity.

   • Celebrate the diversity of cultures, perspectives, and identities, encouraging learning and growth.

2. Mutual Respect and Inclusivity

   • Treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, physical appearance, weight, ethnicity, religion, culture, or any other group identity.

   • Practice anti-racism, anti-sexism, and actively oppose all forms of hate and discrimination.

   • Exercise empathy, self-reflection, and solidarity within the community.

3. Harassment-Free Environment

   • Harassment of any kind is not tolerated, including verbal, physical, or online forms.

   • Examples of unacceptable behavior include:

     • Unwanted sexual attention or advances.

     • Inappropriate or disrespectful comments about someone’s appearance, identity, or abilities.

     • Intimidation, stalking, or threatening behavior.

   • If you experience or witness harassment, please report it to the festival organisers immediately.

4. Consent and Boundaries

   • Always seek consent before engaging in physical contact or initiating activities that may involve others.

   • Respect personal and professional boundaries at all times.

   • Use and respect the pronouns by which people identify themselves.

   • Saying "Yes, and" in improvisation does not override the importance of consent.

5. Artistic Collaboration

   • Foster a spirit of collaboration, open-mindedness, and mutual support.

   • Respect the creative process and the contributions of all participants.

   • Address potentially offensive or discriminatory topics in art responsibly, using them as platforms for transformation when appropriate.

6. Alcohol and Substance Use

   • If consuming alcohol or other substances, do so responsibly and in compliance with local laws.

   • Avoid engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behavior while under the influence.

   • Respect designated substance-free zones and the choices of participants who abstain.

7. Respect for Spaces and Property

   • Treat all festival venues, equipment, and materials with care.

   • Leave shared spaces clean and tidy.

   • Follow the rules and guidelines set by venue staff and organizers.

   • Be mindful of preserving the integrity of social and physical spaces.

8. Safety and Well-being

   • Prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of yourself and others.

   • Inform organisers of any medical conditions, accessibility needs, or other concerns that may require accommodation.

   • Festivals are intense; take care of yourself by staying hydrated, eating well, and resting as needed.

9. Social Media and Privacy

   • Ask for permission before photographing or filming someone, especially if you plan to post it on social media.

   • Only capture images of shows or artwork when authorized and credit artists appropriately.

10. Reporting and Accountability

    • If you observe behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, report it to a designated festival representative.

    • Reports will be handled with discretion and sensitivity.

    • Violations may result in warnings, removal from events, or bans from future festivals.

    • We prioritize the safety and integrity of those impacted while ensuring fair processes for all parties involved.

11. Training and Artistic Activities

    • Arrive on time and respect activity schedules to ensure smooth organization.

    • Share limitations or concerns that may affect physical or emotional well-being with activity leaders or partners.

    • The training space is not a therapy space; seek professional help when needed for mental and emotional health concerns.

    • Diversify the people you collaborate with in exercises while respecting the activity’s goals.

    • Use art to build understanding and address difficult topics thoughtfully and responsibly.

12. Get-Together Activities

    • Keep someone informed of your whereabouts for safety in unfamiliar settings.

    • Care for one another as a community, respecting individual autonomy and decisions.

    • Enjoy the cultural offerings, but balance celebration with self-care.

By attending ITHACA, you contribute to a vibrant and respectful celebration of improv, theater, and creative arts. Together, let’s make this festival a meaningful and enriching experience for everyone.

Contact Information:

For any questions, concerns, or reports, please contact us at: ithacafestathens@gmail.com.