Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct is intended to set the foundation of behavior expectations of anyone who represents in any capacity, is served by or employed with CVOEO. This is a commitment to colleagues, those we serve, our community and new or potential hires about the behaviors we expect at CVOEO. Clear expectations and accountability allow us to hold ourselves to a higher standard and strive to be the best organization and individuals we can be.

CVOEO is committed to creating and sustaining an environment that reflects and embraces the diversity of our community, and where all people are respected and valued. We welcome all employees, volunteers, customers and guests and believe deeply in our mission of economic, social and racial justice.

Specifically, the Code of Conduct applies to all interactions in various areas of our shared professional lives, including all events hosted by CVOEO, shared online spaces (i.e. email), social media, and conferences or other events where we represent CVOEO. Our behavior will be measured by the impact it has, not solely by our intentions. This is important to note – please carefully consider the impact of your actions and words on others.

Everyone we serve, employees, volunteers, customers/clients and guests (if in a CVOEO emergency housing program) are expected to be considerate of each other and contribute to a collaborative, positive, and healthy environment in which we can all succeed.

Specifically:

Be inclusive - We welcome, partner with and support people of all backgrounds and identities. Go out of your way to include people in respectful conversations and (appropriate) jokes. Speak plainly and avoid acronyms and jargon that not everyone may understand. Support others when you see a need. CVOEO is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of race, gender, age, socioeconomic status, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, nationality, caste, national origin, veteran, religious, union organization, parental status or any group that has been marginalized.

Be supportive of others, both proactively and responsively - Offer to help if you see someone struggling or otherwise in need of assistance (taking care not to be patronizing or disrespectful). If someone approaches you looking for help, be generous with your time; if you’re under a deadline, let them know when you will be able to help or direct them to someone else who may be of assistance.

Be Collaborative - Involve others in social or business interactions. Seek out perspectives that are different than your own. While you may not always agree, take the opportunity to hear other opinions and to challenge your own thinking and experiences.

Be Respectful - Treat every individual with whom you come into contact with respect and dignity. This includes choosing your words carefully and using language that holds people up and is in no way derogatory or demeaning. Refrain from sharing jokes or making statements which are in any way demeaning, profane, contain slurs, stereotypes or prejudice. We won't all agree all the time, but disagreement is no excuse for disrespectful behavior. An environment where people feel uncomfortable or threatened is not a productive or creative one.

It is important to note that discrimination and harassment are prohibited. Furthermore, any behavior or language that is unwelcoming—whether or not it rises to the level of harassment—is also strongly discouraged.

CVOEO is committed to taking action when it learns of potential discrimination. Any individual who has been found to have discriminated against another individual may be subject to disciplinary action, ranging from a verbal warning up to and including termination and/or eviction (if they are a guest at a CVOEO emergency housing facility). Please note that as part of this process CVOEO may use restorative practices if appropriate.