Welcome to the Out Youth Family! We have a number of practices to help maintain a culture of respect in our space.
Our practices are rooted in combating structural oppression. We respect people for their authentic selves and will not allow discrimination based on gender identity, race, sexual or romantic orientation, ethnic or cultural identities, disability, religion, or country of origin.
We Expand and Strengthen our Family
“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.”
Make newcomers feel welcome, check-in on those who look lost
Ask for and respect name/age/pronouns so we can all be seen
Feel empowered to take up space and to make space for others
We celebrate and respect the diversity of our family
We Listen to Learn and Grow
“We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist. “
Be open to learning, even if it's uncomfortable
Don't make assumptions, it's always ok to ask
We all make mistakes (apologize, learn and move on)
Actively listen while others are talking
We know the difference between intent and impact
We Practice Good Consent
“In a world which asks us not to care too deeply or question too closely,
it is brave to be here with this.”
Consent is freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific
Feel empowered to advocate for your own comfort and needs
You have the right to opt-out of any conversation or activity
We make this House a Home
“Home is a shelter from storms-all sorts of storms.”
Respect the space; pick up your trash and actively participate in clean-up
Keep physical affection to a PG rating
Be mindful of your volume
We take care of ourselves and each other, and ask for help when we need it
How We Reinforce Our Practices
When someone violates a practice in the Drop-in Center, there are two main ways we address it:
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Option 1: If you feel safe doing so, address the practice violation in the moment with the other person. This should be done calmly, respectfully and giving the benefit of the doubt.
Option 2: Pull aside a staff member or volunteer you feel comfortable talking to and explain the situation. The staff member will immediately (when possible) verbally address the issue.
If the person continues to violate the same practice, staff will help make a restorative practices plan and discuss how both parties can co-exist in the Drop-in Center.
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Option 1: Acknowledge and accept the lessons learned from this issue, and find a way to forgive and move on.
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Option 2: Practice good boundaries. Not everyone might feel comfortable, but everyone needs to feel safe.
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