Code of Conduct

The Theoretical Archaeology Group, in collaboration with the Department of Archaeology, University of York is committed to promoting access for all and to creating an environment that is safe, inclusive and welcoming. TAG requires that all participants, organisers, and delegates, conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, within each and every conference venue.


Attendees at this year’s TAG are directed to our Code of Conduct for the conference (adapted from previous TAG CoCs).


Expected behaviour – note that these guidelines apply not only to official conference events but also to related social activities by participants outside the University space.


  • All participants and attendees should treat each other with respect and consideration.
  • Participants and attendees should communicate openly and collaboratively with respect for others, ensuring their contributions are constructive and relevant and critiquing ideas rather than individuals. Chairs of sessions in particular should ensure they are able to moderate discussion in a manner that shows respect for the exchange of ideas while ensuring that participants are treated respectfully. All contributors should abide by directions from the Chair and be alert for indications from other participants that they should be more respectful.
  • Participants and attendees should avoid personal attacks directed towards other attendees and/or participants, whether during or outside of official conference sessions.
  • Participants should feel empowered and supported to call out unacceptable behaviour where they witness it, and should support others they observe doing so.
  • Participants should respect the confidentiality of all participants by not sharing personal details in accordance with data protection and privacy laws (ie. GDPR).
  • When using social media participants should be respectful of people’s stated preferences re-sharing content and images and should ensure they follow all other guidelines presented here when discussing other individuals.
  • Participants should mute any ringers or otherwise disrupting devices while in meeting rooms
  • Participants should respect and uphold public laws and relevant University of York policies in the area where the event is taking place in terms of sexual harassment, hate crime, and bullying [Dignity at Work and Study Policy].



Unacceptable behaviour

  • Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in any form will not be tolerated.
  • Policing toilet use will not be tolerated.
  • Physical or verbal abuse, or unwelcome and/or uninvited attention or contact, of any participant or attendee will not be tolerated.
  • Examples of unacceptable behaviour include, but are not limited to: verbal or written comments or non-verbal expressions related to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, physical appearance, medical condition, partner status, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law, inappropriate use of nudity and/or sexual images in public spaces or in presentations, sustained disruption of events or threatening or stalking any attendee or participant
  • Sharing or unauthorized copying, distribution, or alteration of proprietary content, or other misuse of participants’ resources or likenesses, including via social media.
  • Retaliation against anyone reporting prohibited conduct or participating in an investigation of a claim.
  • Any other conduct deemed inappropriate that may jeopardise the success of the event, the reputation and goodwill of the Theoretical Archaeology Group, University of York or any of the institutions or groups represented therein, or the positive experience of any other attendee. Note however that this will always be judged against the need to uphold freedom of speech.
  • Note that excessive consumption of intoxicants, including at social events connected to the conference, will not be considered an excuse for bad behaviour.



Reporting unacceptable behaviour

  • All participants and attendees should feel empowered and supported in calling out unacceptable behaviour, and informal discussions are often the best way to tackle minor issues. However, it is recognised that many participants and attendees may not feel able to tackle such behaviour head-on. While we encourage any bystanders to take responsibility for supporting others (good ways of defusing situations include distraction and finding reasons to remove oneself and others from difficult situations), if you are the subject of unacceptable behaviour or have witnessed any such behaviour, you can at any time notify a TAG representative-volunteers or known member of the University of York community, or email your concern to tag2025.york@gmail.com.
  • Anyone experiencing or witnessing behaviour that constitutes an immediate or serious threat to public safety or is of a criminal nature, is advised to call University of York security on +44 (0)1904 32 3333 – if necessary, they will contact the local authorities.



Investigation of reports

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated by representatives of the organising committee and/or University of York representatives as appropriate. Where further investigation is necessary, it will take place in a timely manner, and the details kept confidential to the extent consistent with adequate investigation and appropriate corrective action. 



Consequences

During the meeting, TAG National Committee representatives and appointed University of York staff members may take any action deemed necessary and appropriate, including immediate removal from the meeting without warning (in person or online) and without recourse to refund.

The TAG  National Committee reserves the right to prohibit attendance at any future meeting by anyone violating this code of conduct.


All decisions are at the discretion of the TAG organising committee and are final.