IRE Board of Directors strengthens code of conduct

By Steven Rich, IRE Board of Directors

The IRE Board of Directors has voted unanimously to update the IRE Principles, the code of conduct for IRE events.

The update includes language that more explicitly bans discriminatory and harassing behavior from IRE events. While these were never permitted at IRE events, it was important that we spell it out more clearly. Also included is language laying out that the code of conduct covers the entire time you attend an IRE event, including outside of specific conference events such as at the bar or the rest of the hotel at all times.

The update also includes a way to contact IRE board members outside of scheduled program hours to report violations of the code of conduct. During an October meeting, the IRE Board decided that this reporting information would appear in more places around the conference space and hotel. Additionally, information on the code of conduct and how to report violations will appear on the back of every conference name badge.

IRE is a constantly evolving organization, and it is more imperative than ever that our events are safe and welcoming for every member in attendance, as well as those who are considering attending future events. We believe this is a step in the right direction.

If you have any questions or concerns about the code of conduct, including any ideas to further improve it, the board of directors is listening. Please contact us at your convenience. (Bios and contact information for board members are available here.)

The changes are effective immediately. Here is the revised code of conduct:

IRE PRINCIPLES (CODE OF CONDUCT)

(effective January 14, 2019)

Investigative Reporters & Editors is committed to providing a friendly, safe and welcoming environment for all, regardless of race, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical ability, age, appearance or religion.

IRE supports vigorous debate and welcomes disagreement, while maintaining a civil and respectful community. Discriminatory or harassing behavior is not permitted.

IRE may take any action it deems appropriate to deal with those who violate our principles, including exclusion from our events, forums, listservs and the organization itself.

This code of conduct covers all participants in IRE events and is in effect the entire time from the beginning until the end of our conferences. During conferences, we will publicize a contact email, in addition to making staff and IRE board members easily identifiable, with badges that identify themselves as such, so you know whom to contact if you see or experience an issue.

If you feel threatened or in immediate jeopardy during an IRE event, you should call building security by calling 0 from a house phone, or local police by dialing 911.

During the scheduled program, concerns can be brought to the attention of IRE staff or board members in person. Contact information to reach an IRE board member outside of the scheduled program can be found here: https://www.ire.org/about/board-of-directors