SMACC Policy on Sexual Harassment: Professionalism, Creativity, and Ensuring Safe Practices
The Social Media and Content Creators (SMACC) community is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all creators, collaborators, and audiences. This policy provides guidance on avoiding sexual harassment, navigating the fine line between creativity, professionalism, and inappropriate behavior, and protecting yourself and others during content creation.
Purpose of This Policy
1. Define sexual harassment and its boundaries in the context of content creation.
2. Provide clear examples of acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
3. Offer actionable steps creators can take to protect themselves and others.
4. Demonstrate SMACC’s commitment to professional, respectful, and ethical practices.
Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:
• Creators and collaborators working in any capacity (actors, crew, clients, etc.).
• Content creation scenarios, including at home, on premises, or in public spaces.
• Interactions online and offline, including comments, direct messages, and live streams.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment includes unwanted or inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature. Examples include:
• Verbal: Sexual comments, jokes, or advances.
• Non-Verbal: Leering, gestures, or sharing inappropriate images.
• Physical: Unwanted touching, proximity, or coercion.
• Digital: Sending explicit messages, images, or videos without consent.
The Fine Line: Creativity vs. Harassment
Content creation often explores themes like sexuality, relationships, and human expression. However, professionalism and clear boundaries must always guide creative efforts.
Examples of Acceptable Behavior
• Filming creative projects with clear consent from all participants.
• Discussing boundaries and expectations for roles involving intimacy or suggestive themes.
• Using professional intimacy coordinators when filming sensitive content.
• Respecting personal space and refraining from making unsolicited comments about appearance or behavior.
Examples of Unacceptable Behavior
• Asking collaborators to perform acts or wear costumes they are uncomfortable with, especially under pressure.
• Making inappropriate comments, jokes, or gestures in professional settings.
• Ignoring requests to stop certain behaviors or comments.
• Exploiting positions of power to coerce participation in sexual or suggestive acts.
Steps Serious Creators Can Take to Protect Themselves and Others
1. Create Clear Boundaries
• Establish a Code of Conduct for all projects, defining acceptable and unacceptable behaviors.
• Communicate expectations openly and early, especially when content involves sensitive themes.
• Avoid overly casual or suggestive language in professional communications.
2. Obtain Consent
• Use written agreements for projects involving nudity, intimacy, or sexually suggestive content.
• Discuss boundaries during pre-production and respect any changes or withdrawal of consent.
3. Maintain Professionalism
• Keep all interactions strictly professional, even when collaborating with friends or acquaintances.
• Avoid private or one-on-one meetings in settings that could lead to misunderstandings—opt for public or recorded meetings.
4. Provide a Safe Environment
• Ensure the filming environment is free from unnecessary distractions or risks.
• Employ professionals such as intimacy coordinators or trusted mediators for projects involving intimate scenes.
5. Document Interactions
• Maintain records of communications (e.g., emails, scripts, and contracts) to demonstrate professionalism.
• If conflicts or complaints arise, ensure there’s a clear and documented record of steps taken.
6. Respect Digital Spaces
• Avoid making unsolicited comments on appearances or sharing inappropriate jokes or emojis in digital communications.
• Monitor online interactions, such as live stream comments, to prevent or address harassment by audience members.
7. Educate Yourself and Your Team
• Undergo regular anti-harassment training to understand boundaries, unconscious biases, and best practices.
• Provide collaborators with access to resources on professionalism and harassment prevention.
8. Have Clear Reporting Mechanisms
• Encourage collaborators or employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
• Appoint a neutral party to handle complaints discreetly and fairly.
9. Respect “No” Always
• If someone says no to a suggestion, role, or action, respect it without argument or persuasion.
10. Avoid Perceptions of Impropriety
• Refrain from any behavior that could be misconstrued as favoritism or harassment, such as offering roles or perks in exchange for personal favors.
How SMACC Members Demonstrate Compliance
To show awareness and adherence to this policy:
1. Policy Sharing:
• Share this document or a customized Code of Conduct with all collaborators and clients.
2. Signed Agreements:
• Use contracts that outline roles, responsibilities, and acceptable behavior.
3. Transparency:
• Clearly communicate expectations for professionalism and boundaries during project planning.
4. Documentation:
• Keep written records of project discussions, especially those involving sensitive themes.
5. Proactive Mediation:
• Actively address concerns or complaints to prevent escalation.
6. Training and Education:
• Provide evidence of participation in anti-harassment training or workshops.
Conclusion
The SMACC community stands for professionalism, creativity, and respect in content creation. By following this policy, members demonstrate a commitment to safety and mutual respect, ensuring that all participants feel secure, valued, and free to express themselves creatively.
For questions or further guidance, please contact SMACC or consult local laws and best practices regarding workplace harassment.
