Commitment to a Safe Environment
As we gather for this important conference, we celebrate the diversity of our profession and the The Information Architecture Conference (IAC) is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants.
This Code of Conduct applies to everyone- attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and staff -across all IAC spaces: workshops, main sessions, social events, and online platforms..
We expect respectful, professional behavior at all times.
Communication Guidelines
- Be sensitive to differing political views and any stresses our colleagues may be experiencing. Our profession thrives on collaboration and mutual respect, and we believe that maintaining a respectful dialogue is essential for productive discussions and meaningful connections.
- Respect others’ boundaries. If someone declines to engage with you, stop communicating with them unless invited later.
- Be respectful in all interactions. Sexualized content, offensive speech, or excessively vulgar language is not acceptable in any format, whether in person or in virtual spaces. Before posting memes or comments, consider whether they could be misinterpreted or deemed offensive.
- Speakers must be responsible. When discussing sensitive topics (such as abuse, trauma, or mental health crises) speakers must include appropriate warnings. IAC organizers should be notified in advance to ensure thoughtful handling of the subject matter.
- Do not misrepresent yourself or others. Use your real identity in virtual environments. If using a nickname, ensure that others can identify you clearly. Do not misrepresent others in posts, comments, or public messages.
- IAC is committed to inclusivity. We prohibit discrimination based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, level of experience, nationality, personal appearance, race, religion, sexual identity and orientation, or any other personal characteristic.
Enforcement
- Anyone asked to stop inappropriate behavior must comply immediately.
- Organizers may issue warnings or remove participants without refund to maintain a safe environment.
- Disruptive conduct, online or in person, will not be tolerated.
We expect all participants to follow these guidelines throughout IAC-related events and gatherings.
Reporting
If you experience or witness harassment or inappropriate behavior, contact a member of the IAC team as soon as possible. You can make a report either personally or anonymously.
Personal Report
You can make a personal report by:
- Contacting an IAC team member in person.
- Messaging an IAC team member labeled as “Staff,” “Co-Chairs,” or “Safety” through our designated online platforms.
- Emailing the IAC team at codeofconduct@theiaconference.com.
- Filing an IAC Safety Issue Report (Google Form).
Our team will prioritize your safety, ensure confidentiality, and help you connect with venue security, local law enforcement, or support services if needed.
Anonymous Report
You can submit an anonymous report via the IAC Safety Issue Report (Google Form).
While we cannot follow up directly, all reports are investigated. Our team will prioritize your safety, ensure confidentiality, and help you connect with venue security, local law enforcement, or support services if needed.
“Should I report it?”
If you answer “yes” to any of the following, please let us know.
- Do you feel unsafe or fear that someone else does?
- Do you have prior conduct-violating experience with members of our community that deters your participation in an event?
- Are you concerned about the appropriateness of language being used, views being expressed, or the materials being shared at any of our events or via our social media channels?
- Did you witness something that you are not sure is appropriate based on our code of conduct?
This Code of Conduct was last updated on August 26, 2025, and will continue to evolve as needed.