Code of Conduct

The Toronto Bonsai Society (“TBS”) Code of Conduct applies to all TBS members, volunteers and guests. As a member of the TBS, you agree to abide by the Code of Conduct.

TBS VALUES

The TBS is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable environment in which each of our members can grow and develop, offering its members an opportunity to belong and participate in a community organization. We expect all members of the bonsai community to be respectful, kind and caring towards one another.

It is critical within a community bonsai club that our values drive our behaviours and conduct. All members of the TBS are expected to abide and support the following values:

Respect and honesty

We recognize the contribution that all people make to our bonsai club, and we expect members to treat one another with dignity and consideration, as well as caring for the surroundings which we use and in which we work. We encourage that all members of the extended TBS community are treated in a manner we would like to be treated ourselves. Members are to uphold the reputation and integrity of the TBS and refrain from conduct that is detrimental to the TBS and its members, or that misrepresents the aims and ethics of the TBS.

Respect for the environment and property rights

Members shall engage in and advocate for the responsible collection of trees and plants.

A club free of discrimination and harassment

The TBS is committed to the development and promotion of equal opportunity for all. This applies to external recruitment, internal appointments and opportunity for training, regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability and conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered.

The club will not tolerate harassment in any form. Harassment is a form of discrimination and includes any unwanted physical or verbal behaviour that offends or humiliates you. Generally, harassment is a behaviour that persists over time. Serious one-time incidents can also sometimes be considered harassment. It can take many forms such as: humiliation, intimidation, and victimization. It can be verbal, physical, social or psychological in nature. TBS will promote a culture where each individual has the right to feel safe and secure and the right to feel respected and supported by others within the bonsai community.

All members of the TBS community are expected to support the club in its undertakings and encourage the club to take any necessary disciplinary action for breaches of the Code of Conduct. All members are encouraged to inform any TBS Executive Committee member of any breach of the Code of Conduct, the report of which will then be passed on to the entire TBS Executive Committee.

All TBS members shall also adhere to the code of conduct of the venue of the event, and venue security and staff must be treated with respect. Severe or continued breaches of the TBS Code of Conduct can result in an immediate termination of membership by the TBS Executive Committee.