Code of Conduct
The text below is in Article 2 of the GATO Constitution. The remaining articles of the constitution describe our structures and processes — membership criteria, decision-making processes, leadership roles, and much more. The full text of the constitution is available to all GATO members.
Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct determines the ways we should and should not conduct ourselves as GATO members. This applies to our actions and statements within the union, as well as without (e.g., when we talk to tenants and community members).
Act in solidarity: Solidarity is built by struggling together towards collective goals while simultaneously building strong personal and social ties to each other. We should always exercise compassion and empathy, especially when engaging in debate. Organizing can be hard work, but we’ll only succeed if we can do it together.
Participate in good faith: During discussions, be honest when presenting your opinion and genuinely engage others’ arguments as we work toward a shared understanding. It’s okay to say “I don’t know if I believe this but…” before you present an idea. Assume that others contribute with good intentions. Do not behave in a way that disrupts meeting procedure.
We keep us safe: Respect the privacy of all members and ensure you have consent when sharing anything that isn't explicitly public information. In particular, do not be careless with personal identifying information for GATO members and tenants we are organizing with. Trust is built when we take confidentiality and privacy seriously.
Treat each other with respect: Harassment, discrimination, or bullying on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, citizenship status, housing status, etc. will not be tolerated. If someone is being treated unfairly, speak up! You should also strive to recognize the ways that power can manifest in daily union life and ensure that power is not used coercively. This power includes but is not limited to positions of power (both formal, such as a Coordinator role, and informal, such as seniority), social capital (i.e. a member's social influence in the group and the way that influence is wielded), and access to GATO information (e.g. member lists and profiles).
Debate constructively: Critique the argument, not the person. Disagreements should be handled respectfully — if things get heated, it’s okay to acknowledge the tension and consciously de-escalate if it is no longer productive. Threats, verbal abuse, or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated. Do not be afraid to apologize or ask for an apology.
W.A.I.T. - Why Am I Talking? Reflect on your thoughts and speak with intent, but also consider when it is best to not speak, especially if others have not had as much speaking time as others.