North American Simulation and Gaming Association

Anti‑Harassment Policy

Purpose

North American Simulation and Gaming Association (NASAGA) is dedicated to providing safe and inclusive conference experiences. We value the participation of every attendee and expect all participants to help ensure a respectful environment free from harassment, discrimination, and intimidation.

Scope

This policy applies to all persons attending or participating in any NASAGA‑sponsored conference, including staff, volunteers, presenters, vendors, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees. It governs behavior in all conference venues and activities—sessions, workshops, exhibit halls, game rooms, dinners, receptions, and related off‑site or online interactions (e.g., email lists, social media, or chat groups connected to the event).

Expected Behavior

Participants are expected to:

  • Be respectful and professional. Treat others with courtesy, regardless of their role at the conference.

  • Respect personal boundaries. Obtain consent before making physical contact, photographing, or recording another participant.

  • Promote an inclusive environment. Use welcoming language; avoid microaggressions, deliberate misgendering, or stereotypes.

  • Follow the rules of hosts and game organizers. Adhere to session and game‑specific guidelines; avoid disruptive behavior.

  • Support safety measures. Comply with any health or security requirements (e.g., badges, wristbands, or capacity limits).

Unacceptable Behavior

The organization does not tolerate harassment in any form. Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to:

  • Offensive verbal or written comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, age, or national origin.

  • Unwelcome or inappropriate physical contact, sexual advances, or sexualized language and imagery in public spaces.

  • Deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, or sustained disruption of talks, games, or other events.

  • Inappropriate or aggressive behavior disguised as role‑playing or “in‑game” actions. All players must be able to opt out of game interactions that make them uncomfortable.

  • Advocating for or encouraging any of the above behavior. Harassment can occur through speech, gestures, written messages, or digital communications. Intent does not nullify the impact; behavior may be deemed harassing even if the perpetrator claims not to have intended harm.

Reporting Procedures

If you experience or witness harassment or other unacceptable behavior, please report it as soon as possible. You can:

  • Contact the NASAGA at: chair@nasaga.org (monitored during events).

  • Report in person: Speak with the identified anti-harassment NASAGA board member.

  • Emergencies: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or emergency services (e.g., dial 911 in the United States) before notifying event staff.

When reporting an incident, provide as much information as you are comfortable sharing (e.g., names, descriptions, locations, and any available documentation). NASAGA will treat all reports sensitively and will disclose information only to the extent necessary to address the situation.

Response and Consequences

Once notified, NASAGA staff will work to stop the inappropriate behavior and prevent further harm. Actions may include:

  • Verbal or written warnings.

  • Removal of the offender from the conference without a refund.

  • Banning the individual from future NASAGA events.

  • Referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.

Failure to do so may result in escalating sanctions.

No Retaliation

NASAGA prohibits retaliation against anyone for reporting harassment or participating in an investigation. Retaliatory behavior may itself be considered harassment and will be subject to disciplinary action.

Role‑Playing and Game‑Specific Considerations

Many NASAGA conferences involve simulation, tabletop gaming, and role‑playing.

Participants should remember that:

  • In‑game actions have real‑world impacts. Harassing, abusive, or discriminatory behavior is not excused by being “in character.”

  • Consent matters. Before including sensitive themes (e.g., violence, romance, trauma) in a role‑play or game, obtain clear agreement from all participants. Respect anyone’s wish to step out or stop a scene.

  • Game masters and facilitators set boundaries. Follow their instructions and respect house rules. Violating those boundaries may result in expulsion from the session or the event.

Policy Review

The organization will review this policy regularly and update it as needed.

Date approved 9/24/2025