ABC’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, based on the Australian Cinematographers Society code of ethics. (ACS)
1. Be inclusive
ABC welcomes and supports people of all backgrounds and identities. This includes, but is not limited to, members of any sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, culture, nationality, social and economic class, educational level, color, immigration status, sex, age, size, family status. , political belief, religion, and mental and physical ability.
2. Be considerate
We are people who depend on each other to produce the best possible results as an inclusive society. Your decisions will affect clients and colleagues, and you must take these consequences into account when making decisions.
3. Be respectful
Not all people agree all the time, but disagreeing is no excuse for disrespectful behavior. We may experience frustration from time to time, but we cannot allow that frustration to turn into personal attacks. An environment where people feel uncomfortable or threatened is not productive nor creative.
4. Conduct yourself professionally
Always choose your words or actions carefully. Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down others. Harassment and exclusionary behaviour aren’t acceptable. This includes, but is not limited to:
– Threats of violence and bullying, discriminatory jokes and language.
– Sharing inappropriate or unsolicited sexually explicit or violent material via electronic devices or other means.
– Unwelcome sexual attention.
In general, if someone asks you to stop doing something inappropriate, then stop.
5. Language matters
Use gender neutral language.
Be mindful – Swearing or culturally inappropriate language may be offensive.
6. Make differences into strengths
Being unable to understand why someone holds a viewpoint doesn’t mean that they’re wrong. Don’t forget that we all make mistakes. Focus on resolving issues and learning from mistakes.
7. Be proactive as an Ethical Bystander
If you observe harassment, disrespectful or bullying behavior towards another, you have a duty of care to act. Do not ignore it. Show you don’t condone it.
We can find strength in diversity. Different people have different perspectives on problems and this can be valuable.
Be proactive, speak up immediately or seek appropriate intervention.
Ignoring the behavior can be seen as a silent approval. Don’t underestimate your impact as an observer. Doing nothing is a form of omission. Speak up about it!