Code of Conduct and Rules for B.A.C.K Event Participants

B.A.C.K exists to establish and maintain a communication, information, education and support network for members of the local alternative lifestyles community and to support the right of all adults to engage in “risk aware and consensual” activities. We welcome all adults, age 18 and over (who are out of high school), without regard to gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, race, preference, disability, or age. We believe that each person has the right to express their kink within the bounds of the law and without judgment or scrutiny from others. Events may be structured as social gatherings, educational workshops, presentations, public exhibitions or open play. 

This Code of Conduct and event rules identifies the standards of behavior that all members and event participants are expected to follow, and are in place to maintain a level of social safety. Breaches of these rules will be cause for your immediate dismissal from events and suspension from future activities. Exceptions to rules are announced on an individual event basis.

1. Respect

Respect is the polite attitude shown toward someone or something (ref.: Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary).

  • Treat all persons with courtesy and respect. This applies to in-person and online interactions and communications. Strive to present a positive image in your words, actions and appearance.

  • You don’t have to like everyone, but being polite and courteous is a must. If you have a disagreement, handle it in private and outside of the group activities. Be civil and do not intimidate others.

  • Not all events will allow nudity or acts of a sexual nature. Illegal activities are not allowed and specific restrictions on types of play may be imposed by the organizer.

  • If you have protocols, it is your responsibility to share the protocols you wish others to observe and respect.

  • • Persons watching scenes are expected to be quiet and be respectful of those in the scene. No loud talking, comments, advice or other behavior that could interrupt the scene is permitted. Do not walk into another person's scene space or handle their tools unless invited. 

2. Confidentiality

Confidentiality means that there are restrictions on information and private affairs. Disclosure of information can result in harm to a person’s livelihood, family and self (ref.: www.dictionary.com). 

  • Events, locations, organizers, participants, what happened, what was discussed, etc., are confidential unless announced otherwise. You may not share any information about an event, even what YOU did at an event, IF it divulges information about any other attendees, the venue or the organizers. Even if it involved you, you must still have permission of the other persons involved to share on any public social media or in conversation (having permission in writing is recommended). 

  • Cameras and cell phones must be kept put away. Photos may be taken ONLY by explicit permission of the people in the picture and the event organizer, AND must be reviewed by those in the photo, who also have the right to approve or deny further use.

3. Consent

Consent as it applies to BDSM or sexual activities is the agreement to participate in negotiated activity, stipulating that there be informed prior and ongoing consent, and any withdrawal of that consent must be respected. Consent is what makes the difference between BDSM being play and it constituting assault. For sexual or BDSM conduct to be acceptable, each participant must understand that their partner(s) are actively and continuously agreeing that the experience should continue (ref.: National Coalition for Sexual Freedom).

  • All play must be consensual and negotiated. Negotiate your play carefully and give feedback regularly. By participating in play, you are assuming full responsibility for your interactions. Be clear with your expectations. 

  • You may not touch, grope, and fondle, etc. another member or participant unless they give explicit consent for you to do so. 

4. Risk Awareness, Personal Responsibility, and Safety

Risk - the possibility that something bad or unpleasant (such as an injury or a loss) will happen (ref.: Merriam-Webster)

Responsibility - moral, legal, or mental accountability (ref.: Merriam-Webster)

Safety - freedom from harm or danger: the state of being safe (ref.: Merriam-Webster)

  • BDSM play carries inherent risks of bodily injury. Participants must be aware of potential dangers and determine for themselves what level of risk they wish to accept, and take responsibility for their own decisions and actions.

  • NO alcohol or illegal drugs are allowed at an event or immediately beforehand. If you are impaired, you will be asked to leave. 

  • • When Monitors or Hosts are identified for an event, they are responsible for making sure the rules are followed. Their word and decision is final. 

    • The people involved in the scene are responsible for keeping the area free of contamination from bodily fluids (blood, semen, urine, etc.), disposing of any waste appropriately, using proper precautions, and cleaning up after the scene.

    • If your scene involves unusual risks or you think it may make onlookers uncomfortable or evoke a strong emotional response, discuss your plans in advance with a Monitor or organizer.

    • In case of a medical emergency, 911 will be called. Participants should not depart the venue unless directed to do so by a Monitor or event organizer.