Purpose
The
AutoML Conference is dedicated to providing an
inclusive, and respectful experience for all participants. We value the
open exchange of ideas, freedom of thought and expression, and respectful scientific debate—all of which require an environment that recognizes and respects the inherent worth of every person. This policy applies to
all participants, including attendees, organizers, reviewers, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and guests, both during the conference and in all communication channels.
Expected Behavior
All participants are expected to:
Be respectful: Treat everyone with courtesy, professionalism, and empathy.
Use inclusive language: Avoid assumptions about identity, background, or experience. Use gender-neutral language when possible, and honor stated pronouns.
Engage constructively: Critique ideas, not people. Disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, not personal attacks.
Respect boundaries: Physical, emotional, and digital boundaries must be honored. Always ask for
explicit consent before initiating physical contact, photography, or recording.
Contribute to a safe environment: Report any concerns or violations promptly.
Unacceptable Behavior
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
Offensive comments related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, beliefs, age, technology choices, or any other personal characteristic.
Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following (online or in person).
Harassing photography or recording, including taking screenshots of private conversations or presentations without consent.
Sustained disruption of talks, events, or discussions.
Inappropriate physical contact or unwelcome sexual attention.
Public or private vulgar, derogatory, or diminutive language.
Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviors.
Retaliation against anyone reporting a violation.
Note: Sexual language and imagery are not appropriate in any conference venue, including talks, workshops, social events, or online spaces. Sponsors and exhibitors must also refrain from using sexualized clothing, materials, or activities.
Scope
This Code of Conduct applies to:
All
conference venues (physical and virtual), including social events, workshops, and poster sessions.
Official
communication channels (e.g., conference Slack, email lists, social media groups).
All participants, including attendees, organizers, reviewers, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and guests.
All presented content, such as talks, slides, and sponsors material.
Any
organization that uses the conference name as branding as part of its activities at or around the conference.
AutoML-Conf is
not responsible for incidents occurring in unsanctioned spaces (e.g., private hotel rooms, external restaurants, or unofficial social media groups). However, we will address reports of harassment or misconduct
related to the conference if they are brought to our attention, regardless of location.
Reporting Guidelines
If you
experience or witness harassment, discrimination, or any behavior that violates this policy,
please report it.
How to Report
In Person: Approach any
conference volunteer, organizer, or Diversity Chair (identified by badges or lanyards).
Via Email: Contact the
Diversity Chair at
diversity-chair@automl.cc. Reports will be handled confidentially.
For Immediate Assistance: Conference volunteers can escort you to a safe location or connect you with local support services.
What to Include in Your Report
Your name and contact information (unless reporting anonymously).
The
name/description of the person(s) involved.
A
detailed description of the incident, including
time, location, and context.
Any
witnesses or evidence (e.g., screenshots, emails).
Response Time
Reports made
during the conference will receive a response
within 24 hours.
Reports made
outside the conference will receive a response
within two weeks.
Support for Reporters
We are committed to ensuring your safety and well-being. If needed, we can:
Provide
escorts to help you feel safe.
Connect you with
local support services (e.g., counseling, legal advice).
Assist with
travel or accommodation changes if necessary.
Enforcement
Participants asked to stop unacceptable behavior
must comply immediately. If a participant engages in harassing behavior, the conference organizers may take
any action they deem appropriate, including but not limited to:
A
formal or informal warning.
Expulsion from the conference without refund.
Banning from future AutoML-Conf events (for the individual or their organization).
Reporting the incident to the offender’s employer, funding agency, or local law enforcement.
Public statement (if necessary to protect the community).
Appeals Process
If you disagree with a decision made by the organizers, you may
appeal in writing to the
General Chair within
7 days of the decision. The appeal will be reviewed by an
independent panel (e.g., members of the steering committee not involved in the initial decision).
Note: A response of “just joking” or “it was a misunderstanding”
will not excuse unacceptable behavior. Intent is not required for behavior to be considered harassment.
Confidentiality
All reports will be handled
with the strictest confidentiality. Information will only be shared with those
directly involved in resolving the issue (e.g., organizers, legal counsel, or law enforcement if necessary).
Acknowledgments
This policy is
inspired by and adapted from the
Geek Feminism Wiki Conference Anti-Harassment Policy and the
ICML’21 Code of Conduct. We are grateful to these communities for their leadership in fostering inclusive spaces.
Questions or Feedback
We welcome
feedback on this policy or its enforcement. Please contact the
Diversity Chair at
diversity-chair@automl.cc.
