This code of conduct applies to any community space attached to Flat Improv, which includes our jams, mixer shows and other online community gathering spaces (livestream comments, etc).
There are people in the room come from a variety of backgrounds, upbringing cultures and demographics. We also have many different styles of comedy and many are still learning how to do improv. We understand mistakes happen and we do not punish mistakes. However if code-breaking behavior occurs regularly/repeatedly after being addressed with you, you may be asked to leave the session(s).
We strive to keep our spaces beneficial to the community. We cannot guarantee a safe space due to the nature of improv, humans, and society — but we have this code to try and keep these spaces as safe as possible.
Here is our code of conduct for jams, classes, and community shows.
- Be nice. Don’t be a jerk, and respect the others in the room and community.
- You will engage in good faith with the people you are playing with and while engaging with the community (this includes any conversations concerning the code of conduct as well).
- You will not “punch down” – which means you will not make fun (or a joke out of) groups of people who are historically marginalized in our societies. While we do not encourage “social commentary” scenes, please know that punching AT the problem by mentioning marginalized groups is not punching down. Context matters. Because social commentary is very difficult to do, and online discourse is very diverse due to its worldwide nature and in general due to a variety of neurotypes and lived experiences, we encourage trying to stay away from most social commentary and politics in jams/mixers unless you and your scene partners are very experienced in this style of play, or are very comfortable with each other.
- You will honor the name, pronouns, and expressed boundaries of others in the community. If you use someone’s name in a scene, also use their pronouns in that scene. You are encouraged to use character names instead, though!
- You, and anyone else, is free to leave a scene at any time with or without a reason – in a jam, show, class, etc. You do not need to be uncomfortable in any scene.
If you have any concerns or issues, please fill out our contact form with as much detail as you can provide. We take your concerns seriously and will do our best to address them. For example, if you mention something verbally might be a “code of conduct” issue, we will take it seriously and address it like any code of conduct complaint.
If you would like or need to remain anonymous, there is an anonymous feedback form on that page as well (this mostly communicates that you want to remain anonymous). You can opt to use a throwaway email with the anonymous form if you want a response.
Updates to Code of Conduct
THIS IS A LIVING DOCUMENT. This is a very early version of our code of conduct, as we are just starting our jams and shows. This code of conduct will be revised and expanded in the near future.
Please note that when you agree to this code of conduct, you are agreeing to the CURRENT one regardless of when you read or accept this form. If you are unsure, please review this page prior to engaging with the community. Page updates and changes will be noted below.
Who receives the reports & next steps
Jen deHaan receives the reports. If reported anonymously, all information will remain confidential and will inform any necessary changes to Flat Improv policies and procedures. Otherwise your information will only be shared with any parties required to address the issue. We will only share the information required to address your concern, nothing more than necessary.
Flat Improv reserves the right to engage with a moderator if deemed the best course of action. If applicable, you will be notified in advance so you can choose whether you would like to proceed.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding anything on (or missing from) this page when making your report, please add this information when reporting your issue so we can handle it accordingly.
Thank you!
Change log
Last updated: June 13th. Better introduction and update to first bullet in code.
May 19 2024. Language clarification only.
May 16, 2024. First iteration of code of conduct.