Anti-Harassment Policy

Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to conduct that occurs:

• During in-person training sessions

• During retreats, intensives, or off-site events

• In online spaces related to the training (email, messaging platforms, social media, learning portals)

• In one-on-one interactions connected to the training

Harassment may occur between peers, from instructors to trainees, trainees to instructors, or involving third parties.

Prohibited Conduct

Harassment includes any unwelcome behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or unsafe environment. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

1. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes:

• Unwelcome sexual advances, propositions, or flirtation

• Sexual comments, jokes, or innuendo

• Comments on a person’s body, appearance, or sexuality

• Unwanted physical contact, including touching, hugging, or adjustments without consent

• Requests for sexual favors or implications tied to participation, evaluation, or certification
  Sexual content shared verbally, visually, or digitally

Consent must be explicit, ongoing, and freely given. Silence or discomfort does not constitute consent.

2. Discrimination & Harassment Based on Identity

Harassment or discrimination based on any protected or personal characteristic is prohibited, including but not limited to:

• Race or ethnicity

• National origin or cultural background

• Gender identity or expression

• Sexual orientation

• Religion or spiritual beliefs

• Age

• Body size or physical ability

• Health status or neurodivergence

This includes slurs, stereotypes, exclusionary behavior, microaggressions, or dismissive language.

3. Physical Harassment

Physical harassment includes:

• Unwanted physical contact of any kind

• Physical intimidation or threatening behavior

• Aggressive use of space or posture

• Any physical behavior that causes discomfort, fear, or harm

Hands-on adjustments must always be optional and consent-based.

4. Personal or Emotional Harassment

This includes:

Bullying, shaming, or humiliation

• Repeated unwanted communication

• Gaslighting or manipulation

• Abusive or demeaning language

• Public or private disparagement

Personal boundaries must be respected at all times.

5. Online or Digital Harassment

Harassment is prohibited in all digital spaces connected to the training, including:

• Emails or direct messages

• Group chats or forums

• Social media posts or comments

• Sharing private information without consent

This includes harassment that occurs outside scheduled training hours if it impacts the learning environment.

Reporting Harassment

Trainees who experience or witness harassment are encouraged to report concerns as soon as they feel able.

Reports may be made:

• Informally, through direct communication when appropriate

• Formally, in writing, to the Lead Trainer or Program Director

Reports should include:

• A description of the behavior

• Dates, locations, and individuals involved

• Any supporting information, if available

All reports will be taken seriously.

Response & Investigation

• Reports will be acknowledged in a timely manner.

• Soulage Collective will review concerns promptly and fairly.

• Confidentiality will be respected to the greatest extent possible.

• Retaliation against anyone who reports harassment is strictly prohibited.

Consequences

Violations of this policy may result in:

• Verbal or written warnings

• Required corrective action or education

• Removal from specific training activities

• Dismissal from the training without refund

• Additional action as deemed appropriate by Soulage Collective

Severity, frequency, and impact will be considered in determining outcomes.

Commitment to Safety & Accountability

Soulage Collective recognizes that power dynamics exist within teacher training environments and is committed to:

• Centering consent and personal agency

• Supporting those who come forward

• Addressing harm with seriousness and care

Participation in this training includes a shared responsibility to uphold this policy and contribute to a culture of respect and accountability.