Code of Conduct

Community standards for Nova Roma Horizon Innovation Society

Nova Roma Horizon Innovation Society (“Nova Roma”) hosts gatherings, programs, online spaces, and collaborations across our ecosystems. This Code of conduct (“Code”) sets expectations for everyone who participates—whether in person in Ontario or elsewhere, or through our websites, chats, video calls, and related channels.

We are committed to an environment that respects the dignity and equality of all people, consistent with the Human Rights Code of Ontario and applicable Canadian human rights law.

Scope

This Code applies to all participants in Nova Roma activities, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, staff, contractors, and guests. It applies at events, in official Nova Roma online forums, and in communications carried out in Nova Roma’s name or as part of its programs.

Our commitment

We strive to provide a welcoming, respectful, and harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, record of offences, receipt of public assistance, or any other ground protected by applicable human rights law.

Expected behaviour

  • Treat others with respect and professionalism.
  • Use inclusive language and make space for different perspectives and experiences.
  • Give and accept constructive feedback graciously.
  • Respect boundaries, consent, and confidentiality when others share personal or sensitive information in community settings.
  • Follow applicable laws and venue rules, including those of the Province of Ontario and Canada when activities take place here.

Unacceptable behaviour

The following are not tolerated:

  • Harassment, bullying, intimidation, stalking, or discrimination.
  • Verbal abuse, slurs, or hostile comments related to any protected ground or personal characteristic.
  • Unwelcome sexual attention, sexual comments, or unwelcome physical contact.
  • Sustained disruption of sessions, talks, or shared online spaces.
  • Retaliation against someone for reporting a concern or participating in an investigation.

Reporting

If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code, you may:

Reports will be reviewed promptly and handled with attention to privacy and fairness, consistent with our Privacy notice. We may need to share information with those who need to know in order to address the report.

Enforcement

Participants asked to stop unacceptable behaviour are expected to comply immediately. Nova Roma may take any action it reasonably deems appropriate, including warnings, removal from a session or channel, exclusion from future events or programs, or termination of sponsorship or volunteer relationships. Serious matters may be referred to law enforcement where appropriate.

Nothing in this Code limits your right to seek advice from human rights bodies or other authorities under Ontario or Canadian law.

Acknowledgements

This Code builds on widely used community standards for inclusive participation. Nova Roma adapts them to our mission, our Ontario-based governance, and the expectations of our partners and participants.