Professional Conduct

• Treat all members, partners, and industry professionals with courtesy, professionalism and respect.
• Communicate honestly and in good faith whether in person, by email on social media, or during CDC events.
• Represent CDC in a way that reflects positively on the organization and its mission.

Inclusivity

• Actively welcome and support individuals of all backgrounds, especially those marginalized due to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or socioeconomic status.
• Use inclusive language and avoid discriminatory, harassing, or offensive remarks.

Harassment-Free Community

CDC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any kind. This includes:

• Unwelcome sexual attention or advances.
• Bullying, threats, or intimidation (verbal or physical).
• Derogatory jokes, slurs, or gestures.
• Repeated disruption of meetings, panels, or events.

Confidentiality & Privacy

• Do not share private, sensitive, or internal communications from CDC members or leadership without consent.
• Respect the confidentiality of members personal information, career updates, or ongoing projects.

Conflict of Interest with Board Members

• Disclose any potential conflicts of interest in CDC-related activities.
• Refrain from using CDC membership solely for personal gain, solicitation, or unapproved endorsements.

CDC Event Guidelines

Whether virtual or in-person, the following event-specific guidelines apply:

• Registration & Conduct: Members must RSVP to events with integrity and communicate any schedule changes promptly. Respect event hosts, time limits, and fellow attendees.
• Mentorship Events: Approach mentorship with humility and responsibility. Mentors should offer guidance, not guarantees, and mentees are encouraged to be receptive, prepared, and professional.
• Collaborative Spaces: Listen actively. Speak mindfully. Step up and step back to create balanced dialogue.

Reporting Violations

Violations of the CDC Code of Conduct may be reported via the following process:

1. Reporting Mechanism: Concerns can be submitted via email to arianna@composersdiversitycollective.org or through our anonymous reporting form.
2. Investigation: The CDC Board or designed subcommittee will review the report confidentially and fairly.
3. Follow-Up actions: Depending on the nature of the violation, actions may include:
   • Mediation or a facilitated conversation.
   • A formal warning.
   • Temporary suspension of privileges (e.g. mentorship access, event participation).
   • Termination of membership, if warranted.

All reports will be treated seriously and with discretion. Retaliation against individuals who report misconduct is strictly prohibited.

Consequences for Misconduct

CDC reserves the right to take disciplinary action if a member violates this Code. Consequences may include but are not limited to:

• Written or verbal warnings.
• Removal from leadership roles or mentorship programs.
• Revocation of event participation or speaking engagements.
• Termination of membership in the Collective.

Commitment to Growth and Learning

We recognize that learning and unlearning are ongoing processes. CDC commits to offering periodic opportunities for members to expand their understanding of:

• Inclusive language and anti-oppression practices.
• Industry equity challenges and solutions.
• Ethical collaboration and professional boundaries.

Members are encouraged to participate in these offerings and share resources that further our collective mission.

Acknowledgement

All members are required to read and affirm their commitment to this Code of Conduct annually. By continuing your engagement with CDC, you agree to:

• Abide by this Code.
• Contribute positively to the CDC community.
• Remain accountable to CDC’s values and mission.