BAMF! is a community arts and music festival formed in 2017 by two Fairhaven College students with the vision of bringing the local music scene out of its normal house show, bar, or small venue setting and into the great outdoors for an overnight camping extravaganza where all the niches of the Bellingham music and arts communities can collide!

We have grown slow and steady since then and while we still hold the same vision true we have also expanded to allow for more attendees and larger national acts to play alongside our favorite local acts.

Our mission is to empower local artists and musicians by giving them a larger platform to share their work, and to promote more interconnectedness between different disciplines of creation in Bellingham. The result, usually, is a really good time!

BAMF! is held at Lookout Arts Quarry (LAQ), 15 minutes south of downtown Bellingham. LAQ is located on the ancestral and unceded lands of the Nuwhaha, Skagit, Puget Sound Salish, and other Indigenous people who have gathered, created, and celebrated in this area for millennia.

Having previously operated as an industrial rock quarry for 36 years, the 61 acre land site was collectively purchased by a group of artists in 2007. The Lookout Arts Quarry operates as an arts center whose mandate is to steward the health and biodiversity of the land while providing an educational and professional destination for artists and a location for arts events.

LAQ is a private venue and is not open to the public unless attending an event or a reservation is made.

More info on Lookout Arts Quarry can be found on their website lookoutarts.com

Address: 246 Old Hwy 99 N, Bellingham, WA, 98229

The Lookout Arts Quarry has some amenities such as potable water, and porto-potties, but otherwise expect primitive camping w/o hookups.

Roads on-site are gravel with sporadic speed bumps. Speed limit is 5 MPH.

Camp fires are prohibited unless authorized and attended to by Staff. Camp stoves are allowed.

Glass containers and mirrors are prohibited. Vehicles will be searched at the front gate.

Closed-toe shoes that are comfortable for walking/dancing in are recommended as parts of The Quarry can have uneven footing or scattered blackberry bushes.

Parking is the biggest limiting factor at the venue. Carpooling is highly encouraged. If every seat in your vehicle is filled with a person, you receive a Clown Car Discount - Free Parking in the Front Lot!

Parking Options
Front Lot - $20 or free with Clown Car Discount. Parking closest to road and adjacent to Box Office. Approximately a 0.25 mile walk to campgrounds and 0.125 mile walk to festival grounds. Required if your vehicle is not staying the night. Open to campers who don’t mind the walk and want to save money.
Easement - $30 - Lot located adjacent to camping loop. Short walk to campsites. Only available if vehicle is staying overnight. All passengers beyond Box Office required to have Camping Pass. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Camping Loop - $40 - Parking around the perimeter of the campsite. As close to camp as it gets! All passengers beyond Box Office required to have Camping Pass. Arrive early day of event to secure a spot.
RV Parking - $75 - There is very limited RV parking onsite. Arrive early to secure a spot. Anything oversized is considered an RV. Vehicle must stay over night. All passengers beyond Box Office required to have Camping Pass.

Camping passes are sold separate from General Admission tickets. A Camping Pass is required to enter the campground. Attendees are encouraged to buy a Camping Pass with their General Admission ticket. Upgrades can be purchased on site.

Camping at BAMF! is fairly limited. A small portion is grass field and a large majority is forested area. Arrive early to secure your preference. Hammocks are encouraged in the forest and we ask that campers do not take up large spaces that could otherwise house more tents.

Camping inside your car is only permitted in the Easement and Camping Loop zones.

Bringing animals is strictly prohibited unless they are a bona fide service animal.

Documents and approval for service animals will need to be approved by LAQ staff.

Emotional Service Animals are not permitted.

If you arrive with an animal that does not meet these requirements you will be asked to drop them off before being granted access to camping or the festival.

The Quarry Lake is 80-120 feet deep. Only enter the water if you are a confident swimmer and stay within bounds of the buoy line.

Lifeguards will be on-duty during the entire festival.

Using the diving board, cliff jumping, and swimming at night are strictly prohibited. If you are caught breaking these rules you may be removed from the event without refund.

We will be following all of the state guidelines for dealing with COVID-19.

Currently we are not required to check vaccination status, and attendees are not required to provide a negative test to attend. This is subject to change if required by the state.

If attendees are showing symptoms or test positive, please stay home.

If attendees test positive on-site they will be respectfully asked to leave the premises.

All medical staff will be wearing PPE and regular sanitation will occur.

BAMF! takes place outdoors and offers plenty of room to keep distance if you choose. If you wish to wear a mask around others you are encouraged to do so.

Please respect folks who are being precautious of COVID-19 at the event. People have different susceptibilities to diseases or may be in close contact with someone who does.

BAMF! is committed to fostering its safe and inclusive community. In order to do so, BAMF! requires that its staff, contributors, volunteers and attendees understand and agree to this Code of Conduct in relation to all activities regarding the Festival.

Health & Safety

BAMF! does not tolerate or condone any drug or alcohol abuse, underage alcohol consumption, possession and or the use of drugs and or illegal substances. BAMF! prohibits its staff, contributors, volunteers and attendees from facilitating or being involved in the possession and or sale of drugs and or illegal substances in any way.

All BAMF! employees, staff and volunteers are required to review and be familiar with BAMF!’s Harassment and Assault Policy, and to conduct themselves in accordance with the policy, which can be found on our website.

As representatives of BAMF!, staff and volunteers are required to immediately report and or address any health and safety incident immediately. For any medical emergencies, staff and volunteers are required to contact first responders immediately, which may include finding someone with a radio to get first aid attendance if the affected person cannot walk to the first aid tent, or calling or having someone call first responders. BAMF! staff and volunteers are required to report any issues of violence, threatened violence, harassment, or risk of harm immediately to BAMF! security staff or to contact the police immediately.

Please exercise caution on the Festival grounds, including in relation to, among other things, all art installations, music equipment, electrical and generator equipment and cables and campfires. Please follow rules that are posted about swimming and safety around the site. Please report any incidents that may present a risk of any harm to BAMF! security staff immediately.

Behavior

The Festival does not permit or condone inappropriate behavior of any kind, which includes without limitation, any form of verbal, sexual, physical or emotional abuse and or harm; the use of derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures or actions; and any form of harassment, racism, sexism, homophobia or other targeted comments that are intended to cause personal offense or harm to any other person either at the Festival or through social media channels in relation to the Festival or the BAMF! community.

Please contact BAMF! security personnel or law enforcement immediately if you observe any risk of harm or harm to anyone present at BAMF!.

Please report any incident of damage, destruction, vandalism or theft of any property to BAMF! security staff immediately.

BAMF! staff and volunteers play a valuable part in the success of the Festival. BAMF! staff and volunteers are expected to act courteously and professionally with artists, invitees, staff, security personnel, and fellow staff and or volunteers at all times before, during and after the Festival.

As a contractor or volunteer of BAMF!, you are a representative of BAMF! when you are at the Festival. Accordingly, BAMF! may take action in its discretion and as permitted by law against any individual(s) or group(s) that it believes fails to meet the standards set forth in this Code of Conduct.

Environment

BAMF! practices an ethos of being respectful of the environment that we have the privilege of enjoying during the Festival. Accordingly, BAMF! requires that all staff and volunteers support its and Lookout Arts Quarry’s environmental efforts including, without limitation, to use reusable water containers, to ensure all garbage, recycling, and compost go in the designated bins, to ensure that there are no fires of any kind besides those permitted by Lookout Arts Quarry, to refrain from and to report any littering of any sort on the grounds and in the lake or wetlands, any use of soap or contaminants in the Lake and any risk of harm to the natural wildlife habitat of the wetlands.

Please contact a BAMF! staff member or representative prior to taking any action or making any statement that might affect or obligate BAMF! or the Festival including, without limitation, statements to the press, to bloggers and or on social media, and incurring any expense or purportedly entering into any agreement on behalf of or for the benefit of BAMF! Productions LLC.

Please contact a BAMF! staff member or representative immediately if you believe you have observed or experienced a violation of this Code of Conduct and BAMF! will work to assess the situation and to respond as soon as possible.

The Peacekeepers are BAMF!’s care team. Please reach out to them for any info or help you need to feel comfortable and safe at BAMF! They are recognizable by their bright yellow shirts and sometimes bee hats. They respond to non-emergency situations that may not require Medical or Security and are there to reduce harm that may come from negative experiences at the festival. Their home base is at The Sanctuary where they offer a chill space for attendees who may be overwhelmed or have had a negative experience they need support through. Incidents of assault can be reported at the Sanctuary where further actions can be taken that may or may not require the assistance of Security or Medical Team.

Peacekeeper goals include:

• Provide access to water, rest, shade, and referral to emergency services for individuals who are experiencing physical exhaustion or emotional distress.

• Provide an opportunity for education and awareness around festival sex, consent, hydration, and the risks associated with substance use.

• Encourage and model consent.

• Create and normalize access to information, supplies, actions, policies, and relationships that can help reduce the risks associated with substance use.

• Provide a space for attendees to resolve feeling unsafe, concerned, or overwhelmed.

• Report incidents of sexual violence and harm and offer support surrounding these incidents.

This is the official Harassment and Assault Policy created in 2022 for Bellingham Arts & Music Festival. To promote transparency, we are sharing our internal policy.

This policy was modeled after Bass Coast Music Festivals Harassment and Assault policy which was created by Stacey Forrester at Good Night Out Vancouver

We acknowledge that this is difficult and challenging discussion material that can bring up many emotions and potential triggers. Please find resources related to sexual assault and mental health in section 14.0 Resources, or by emailing bamf.consent@gmail.com. This policy is a living document.

______________

Sexual harassment and sexual assault, although not new phenomena, are emergent challenges currently facing festival-goers, music festivals and the music industry more broadly. Research has shown that sexual harassment and sexual assault can have long standing physical, emotional and social impacts on survivors. For attendees, experiences with sexual harassment and assault can interrupt and even ruin a positive festival experience, cause attendees to leave a festival or deter people from altogether attending music festivals.

Harm Reduction programming at live events is closely tied to sexual response prevention and response. BAMF! believes that mass gatherings such as music festivals should establish a space for vulnerable attendees to receive support and help educate the attendees about consent and proper edicate at events.

Sexual violence prevention also works hand in hand with anti-oppression and social justice work. A person’s identity, background or situation - can all impact a person’s exposure to and experiences with sexual violence. These things can also influence who a sexual assault survivor tells and when.

Racialized, transgender, gender variant people and people with disabilities experience disproportionate incidents of violence NOT due to their identities, but rather due to individual and systemic bias, racism, neglect and oppression and this often goes hand in had with a lack of sensitive, safe post assault services.

Sexual violence has been used, and continues to be used as a tool of colonization and oppression and we recognize that any work undertaken to address sexual violence must be done with an intersectional lens, alongside the work to address power imbalances that result from gender inequality and other forms of oppression.

BAMF! has identified 4 core areas of focus for this policy:

EDUCATION - Educating the greater community on the root causes and prevention of power based violence, including sexual violence, particularly how they show up within music communities. Section 5.0.

PREVENTION - Working to prevent power-based violence including sexual harassment and sexual assault during the event. Section 6.0.

DISCLOSURES and COMPLAINTS - The means by which team members and the public can bring incidents of sexual harassment, misconduct or violence to the attention of the BAMF! Staff. Section 7.0.

ASSESSMENT and RESTORATIVE PRACTICES - Outlines how complaints will be looked into and potential outcomes. Sections 8.0 and 9.0.

We all come into the conversation about sexual violence with differing experiences, identities, trauma, knowledge, triggers, strengths, histories and lived experiences. A shared understanding of some terms can help make things easier to talk about.

This policy utilizes the term ‘survivor’ to refer to a person who experiences sexual assault. BAMF! recognizes that some people and organizations prefer this term, while others may use the term victim/survivor. Some people and organizations may also use victim/survivor / survivor as one term. In navigating disclosures, BAMF! representatives will follow the lead of the person disclosing to determine the language they identify with.

Please see the glossary of terms used in this document (see bottom of document) and more generally when talking about sexual violence.

Confidentiality related to reports and disclosures of sexual violence is a top priority. Confidentiality is outlined in Section 11.

This policy and the Code of Conduct referenced in Section 4.0, applies to BAMF! Productions LLC:

Attendees onsite at the festival and BAMF! hosted events, and attendees interacting with BAMF! digital spaces.

Team (Independent subcontractors, volunteers, and managers) is used throughout this policy for the purpose of simplicity. Team refers to anyone directly hired by BAMF! during build, showtime, or tear down.

Suppliers: An organization or business contracted by BAMF! [Ex. A/V production companies, Security, Food Vendors, Artisan Vendors, etc.]

Talent: All are contracted individually. Artists, Workshop presenters, Performance Artists, Art presenters, Movement Instructors.

BAMF! currently has a Code of Conduct to which all staff, volunteers, artists, contractors, and attendees are expected to adhere. It includes the following statement related to sexual harassment and assault. This forms the foundation of our Sexual Harassment and Assault Policy.

“The Festival does not permit or condone inappropriate behaviour of any kind, which includes without limitation, any form of verbal, sexual, physical or emotional abuse and or harm; the use of derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures or actions; and any form of harassment, racism, sexism, homophobia or other targeted comments that are intended to cause personal offense or harm to any other person either at the Festival or through social media channels in relation to the Festival or the BAMF! community."

Read the whole BAMF! of Code of Conduct here.

5.1 PRE-SHOW

Code of Conduct is reviewed and signed. Time is provided to ask questions of BAMF! representatives as needed

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Materials on sexual violence prevention and bystander intervention provided and available to Staff, Volunteer and Attendees at Peacekeper Sanctuary

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

✓ Suppliers

The BAMF! H&A Policy page on the BAMF! website is kept up to date with information about sexual consent, harassment and assault.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

The team is made aware of policies relevant to their role, including how the Code of Conduct informs Respectful Workplace procedures and how to report workplace harassment.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

- Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Pre-show messaging on social media about all the ways to get help onsite.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Peacekeeper volunteer training will include orientation on sexual consent, sexual harassment, and bystander intervention.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

5.2 ONSITE

General volunteer orientation includes education on Consent Culture at the event, and the importance of checking in on people, highlighting that all crew have a role to play in identifying vulnerable attendees and assisting them to get support.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

Branded messaging in the theme of consent and supporting each other to be posted in common areas of the festival, as well as in areas the staff and artists have access to.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

BAMF! Code of Conduct will be visible to all staff, attendees, suppliers and artists as they are arriving on site.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Peacekeeper resource space will include printed information about sexual consent, sexual harassment and bystander intervention.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

5.3 POST SHOW

Questions about physical and social safety are included in the attendee, volunteer, talent and staff post-event surveys. Feedback reviewed and incorporated as appropriate.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Managers are given the opportunity to discuss feedback about physical and social safety, and results from surveys in their post event debrief.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

The bamf.consent@gmail.com email is available year round to collect feedback related to issues of sexual misconduct and provide resources and support to the community. See 7.2.3 for more info on email management.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

6.1 PRE SHOW

The curation teams review the social media posts of the prospective talent prior to sending an offer. The social media scan is looking for discriminatory or disrespectful language towards women and/or marginalized groups.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

The curation teams will reach out to a previous promoter to see how their experience was with the artist relating to respectful behavior.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

By signing their contract or volunteer agreement, staff, volunteers, talent and contractors are agreeing to adhere to the code of conduct.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

A background review of potential suppliers is carried out before entering into a working relationship with the supplier. This may include references, business reviews, social media scans and inquiry into their policies, procedures and practices.

✓ Team

- Talent

- Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Suppliers are responsible for ensuring that their team participates in educational opportunities and signs Code of Conduct.

- Team

- Talent

- Attendees

✓ Suppliers

6.2 ONSITE

Talent will be given direct line to reach Peacekeepers should they need assistance

- Team

✓ Talent

- Attendees

- Suppliers

Peacekeepers volunteers placed at each of the stages during peak crowds and early mornings.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Peacekeepers volunteers roam all areas of the site.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Peacekeeper volunteers carry out “safe walks” back to camp sites, check in on people at agreed upon times and places, and respond to support calls to all areas on the site

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

Peacekeeper space includes an area for attendees who may be more vulnerable and potential targets for sexual harassment or violence (i.e. people who are under the influence of intoxicants) can comfortably remain as long as needed.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

✓ Attendees

✓ Suppliers

6.3 POSTSHOW

The festival undertakes a yearly assessment of all suppliers, sub-contractors, managers and vendors as outlined in Section 8.1.

✓ Team

✓ Talent

- Attendees

✓ Suppliers

7.1 Onsite Support Team

BAMF! has an onsite sexual assault care team to support survivors of sexual violence.

This onsite team is available to people who experience sexual violence at the event as well as people who are struggling related to past experiences as a survivor, including if they see their perpetrator at the event.

This team will be made up of volunteers within the Peacekeeper team, who are selected to be in this role while onshift. BAMF! will have this team on-call at all times.

This team is curated to be as representatively diverse as possible in order to best support survivors.

Leads for this team need to have demonstrated: knowledge of sexual assault, understanding of the impacts of trauma, active listening and understanding of gendered and sexual violence.

This team will work with onsite security in responding to the needs of survivors.

7.2 Sexual Assault Disclosures

BAMF! is aware that management or Peacekeepers may be the first point of contact for people wishing to disclose that the person who harmed them is onsite at the event or connected to the event.

The first point of contact will need to determine if the survivor wishes to:

Disclose - Survivor wishes to receive supports listed in support Section(s) 7.1 and / or 12.0 with no action taken from the festival beyond documentation.

Make a Complaint - Make a formal report to the festival as a means to mobilize an assessment and coordinated response from the festival and / or festival security.

Depending on the context of the assault, the time of disclosure, and who is the alleged perpetrator, Sections 7.2.1-7.2.4 outline the course of action.

7.2.1 Showtime Disclosure: Onsite Assault

• Is the survivor in immediate further physical danger (i.e. being chased)?;

• If yes: security to be dispatched right away if they have not been already;

• Security will respond as per their own protocols to identify the perpetrator, assess the risk to other attendees and determine the appropriate response;

• If not in need of medical attention and not in danger, take the survivor to a private area (sanctuary or other suitable place on site);

• To the extent possible, the wishes of the survivor will be included when coordinating the response;

• Confidentiality must be adhered to as outlined in Section 11.0;

• BAMF! representative to collect details via Sexual Violence Incident Form.;

• Offer person disclosing the option of having harm reduction members present as they wish throughout the process;

• Peacekeeper team to offer further support to survivor, friends, and festival goers as needed;

• Peacekeeper and security to create support plan with survivor for remainder of festival and following as per Section 12.0

Security to work with attendees involved, peacekeepers, other teams as needed, and the survivor to determine what happens with the perpetrator, if they are not handed off to police.

7.2.1 a) Survivor wishes to make a police report

• Incidents in which a crime has been committed (assault of any sort) where a survivor is willing to file a report with the police will result in the police being called.

• Encourage the person reporting not to wash, shower or swim prior to talking to authorities while supporting victim/survivor/survivor (if survivor wishes to make police report), collect as much info about situation and other festival goers involved;

• The safety and wellbeing of attendees are to be managed but no interviews or further statements are to be taken by festival staff before police take statements as part of their investigation on site.

• Note that it may be possible (depending on availability) to access 3rd party reporting through a Victim Service Worker, in which case police may not need to attend.

b) Survivor does not wish to make a police report

• In situations where a survivor does not want police involvement the security manager can assess the incident and make a recommendation to BAMF! Management as to whether an alleged perpetrator should be asked to leave the festival.

• BAMF! reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to refuse entry to anyone without refund of ticket or reservation/RV camping fees.

BAMF! recognizes that sexual violence exists on a spectrum. In some situations, it may be more useful and build greater community capacity to respond with dialogue and education, as opposed to strictly employing punitive measures. As such, after the above steps are completed the actions carried out in response will be incident-specific, take into consideration the ongoing safety of the community and the victim/survivor, and also be reflective of resources available at the time. Potential restorative or remedial practices that may be utilized are outlined in Section 9.0.

7.2.2 Showtime Disclosure: Offsite Assault

BAMF! recognizes that due to the prevasiveness of sexual violence in the greater community, that there may be people onsite who have experienced sexual violence in their past.

• If someone discloses that they are seeking support and (to their knowledge) their alleged abuser is not onsite - the survivor is to be directed to the Peacekeeper team. Measures outlined in Section 12.0 are offered.

• b) If someone discloses that they are seeking support and their alleged abuser (from a previous assault that happened offsite) is onsite - a coordinated response between the survivor, security, and harm reduction will be required.

In either context:

• BAMF! representative to collect details via Sexual Violence Incident Form.

• BAMF! representative to clarify limits of confidentiality as per Section 11.0

• Working with the survivor, harm reduction and security, follow relevant and applicable actions outlined in Section 12.0.

7.2.3 Offseason Disclosure: Onsite Assault

Despite encouraging people to access options onsite, BAMF! is aware and prepared for the fact that survivors may wish to disclose an onsite assault in the offseason. This may happen via bamf.consent@gmail.com. All patrons, team and artists are encouraged to utilize this email for sharing their experiences of safety at BAMF! and related events.

BAMF! staff will monitor this email account, with assistance of the Peacekeepers Managers as appropriate. People writing to this email address will be reminded, via an auto responder, that it is not an avenue for crisis support, and links for such support will be included.

• Initial messages will be acknowledged within 7 days

• BAMF! representative will confirm preferred method of communication for follow up;

• Disclosures can only be taken from persons directly involved in the incident, unless the person reporting has written documentation that they are authorized to speak on the survivors behalf;

• For disclosures taken via phone / video call, 2 BAMF! representatives are to be present;

• Survivor may also opt to have support on the call;

• BAMF! representative to collect details using the Sexual Violence Incident Form;

• BAMF! to clarify if the survivor wishes to further the disclosure into a formal complaint;

• BAMF! representative to clarify limits of confidentiality as per Section 11.0;

• BAMF! representative to offer survivor digital resource package;

• BAMF! representative to clarify that it is ok to share information with security lead (if not on the call);

• Develop a communications plan: how and when communication will be carried out if needed;

• BAMF! representative to clarify next steps and timeline;

• If a complaint is launched from the disclosure, assessment(s) will be completed as per Section 8.0;

• Outcome of disclosure will take into consideration, findings of any assessment, the survivors wishes, capacity of festival, and recommendations from festival security and legal team;

• Course of action to be sent from BAMF! in writing to the survivor.

7.2.4 Offseason Disclosure: Offsite Assault

If the incident does not involve

• A representative of BAMF! or;

• A situation that could create a hazardous or unsafe workplace

AND

the incident did not happen at the festival or other BAMF! event, the scope of this policy will limit the response to that of the supports outlined in Sections 10.0 and 12.0.

7.2.5 Disclosures involving BAMF! Team

BAMF! is responsible for implementing policy and procedure to create a workplace that is free of Bullying and Harassment, which includes sexual harassment. The following obligations are met via this policy:

• Taking steps to prevent or minimize abusive behavior, as is defined in the Code of Conduct, Sections 5.0 and 6.0.

• Developing and implementing procedures for reporting incidents Sections 5.3 and 7.0.;

• Developing and implementing procedures for dealing with complaints from staff against staff. Section 8.0.

Any party working for BAMF! who wishes to make a complaint about another worker, is protected from retaliation.

8.1 ROUTINE: Every year BAMF! staff will undertake a review of all suppliers, sub-contractors, managers and vendors. Sources of information taken into account during this review, may include but are not limited to:

• Feedback generated from attendee survey;

• Feedback generated from post-show management debrief;

• Feedback from other teams;

• Feedback from members of greater Bellingham Community;

• Compliance with Code of Conduct;

• Participation in sexual violence prevention training;

• Business reviews;

• Review of social media accounts;

• Contradiction to BAMF!’s own values in the area of Equity, Diversity and Sustainability;

• Demonstrated ongoing commitment to work, learning or policy in other intersecting areas such as equity, reconciliation, sustainability, diversity;

• The details, status, outcome and follow through in regards to a complaint (Section 8.2) since the last assessment.

This review will be used to inform decisions around working with any party in question in the future. BAMF! reserves the right to re-evaluate contracts on an assessment and incident-specific basis.

8.2 RESPONDING TO A COMPLAINT: When prompted by a disclosure of sexual violence involving a supplier, sub-contractor, manager or vendor (including staff thereof), the review outlined in Section 8.1 will be completed. If the/survivor wishes for their disclosure to launch a formal complaint, an additional assessment will be prompted in a timely manner.

The person carrying out the assessment will:

• Inform the person against whom a complaint has been filed as soon as possible;

• Share this policy with all involved parties

• Remind all parties of the right to and limits of confidentiality. Section 11.0.

• Interview the survivor and the alleged harasser separately;

• Interview other relevant third parties separately;

• Collect details using the Sexual Violence Incident Form;

• Decide whether, on a balance of probabilities, whether there has been a violation of the Code of Conduct;

• Produce a report detailing the assessment details, findings and any recommendations for operational changes, prevention and / or restorative and remedial actions.

If it is determined a Code of Conduct Violation took place:

• Suggest sensitive, relevant, remedial action(s) in consultation with the survivor and other 3rd parties as appropriate . Examples of remedies are outlined in Section 9.0;

• Consult with other teams or organizations (for example harm reduction or sexual violence prevention organizations) as needed while maintaining confidentiality;

• Follow up to ensure that the recommendations are implemented, changes implemented within a specified time frame, that there has been no further unwanted sexual behavior, and that the survivor is informed of and satisfied with the outcome.

If it cannot be determined that a Code of Conduct Violation took place

• The person conducting the assessment may still make recommendations to minimize risk and support well-being;

• Keep a record of all actions taken;

• Ensure that the all records concerning the matter are kept confidential;

• Ensure that the process is done as quickly as possible after the complaint is made.

8.3 DETERMINING WHO CARRIES OUT ASSESSMENTS

• As part of the process to conduct an assessment, BAMF! may opt to use an internal or external investigator.

The decision regarding who will carry out the assessment and whether an an external investigator will be used will be determined based on various factors including:

• the seriousness of the allegations;

• whom the allegations are made against;

• any potential conflict of interest;

• any potential safety needs of either party;

• ability to undertake an objective/neutral process internally;

• costs involved;

• the training/skills/ability of those available to conduct the investigation.

BAMF!’s Harm Reduction framework shares many of the same values employed in Transformative and Restorative Justice, specifically in regards to concepts of Interconnectedness, Respect and Accountability. BAMF! knows that addressing the root causes of violence must also work alongside anti-oppressive, corrective and remedial actions.

Recognizing that sexual violence exists on a spectrum, BAMF! understands that in some situations of harm, it may be more useful and build greater community capacity to respond to harm with dialogue and education, as opposed to employing strictly punitive measures. As such, the actions carried out in response will be incident-specific, take into consideration the ongoing safety of the community and the survivor, be reviewed with the survivor, and be reflective of resources available at the time. Other teams and organizations may be consulted or involved in helping to identify restorative, remedial and / or disciplinary actions.

If either or both of the assessment outlined in Sections 8.1 and 8.2 confirms that a violation of the Code of Conduct took place, subsequent actions may include but are not limited to:

An apology, verbal or written warning, a change to working arrangements, training for the perpetrator, mediation, training for the larger team, discipline, suspension, dismissal, revised contracts, revision of policy, increased supervision, documentation that perpetrator has completed a treatment or support program, documentation of completion of counseling about inappropriate behavior, completion of specified readings, participation in a healing ceremony or other culturally or spiritually significant experience, establishing support links via pod mapping, sharing of further resources, and / or participation in a transformative and restorative justice program facilitated by an outside service.

Other measures as identified by BAMF!, the survivor, Peacekeeper Team, community leaders, or other connected stakeholder or consultant.

The assessment report will outline which actions will apply to which involved parties. Dates for follow through will also be specified. Copies to be provided to all involved parties. Unless otherwise specified in the report, the perpetrator is responsible for all costs incurred in the remedial actions that are assigned to them.

BAMF! is thankful to the labor of folks, in particular Black and Indigenous community leaders who have generously shared their learnings in this area which have informed this policy and inspired a commitment to further learning in this area, particularly: Transform Harm, Third Eye Collective, Adrienne Maree Brown, and Mia Mingus to learn more.

• Sexual Violence disclosures and subsequent complaints from attendees that are shared after the festival via email, social media or other means will be collected via the Sexual Violence Incident Form.

• All information, including identities, accounts of interactions, and statements taken from attendees are to be kept confidential and secured, with access to digital files limited.

• See Section 11.0 for further details related to confidentiality.

Confidentiality is an important principle in creating an environment where survivors feel safe to disclose, report, and seek support.

BAMF! representatives who receive a Disclosure or Complaint, or who are involved in addressing or investigating an incident must:

• Make every reasonable effort to protect Confidential Information and maintain confidentiality;

• Seek the consent of survivors before disclosing any Confidential Information to any third party. The only exceptions to this rule are related to:

  • Minors in need of protection

  • Survivors, family members or community members who may be at risk of or vulnerable to severe injury or mortality.

  • Perpetrators who may be at risk of committing severe injury or mortality.

  • As requested by law including release required in court proceedings, arbitration or other legal proceedings.

• Collect the minimum information about individuals that relates directly to and is necessary to respond to a complaint, which is considered to be supplied in confidence;

• Use information provided only for the purposes of, or those consistent with, addressing the situation, investigating or taking disciplinary action;

Relevant details of incidents (names in identifying factors removed) may be reviewed and used to make safety improvements at future events.

A survivor-centred approach to sexual violence seeks to empower the survivor by listening, protecting their confidentiality and prioritizing their rights, needs and wishes to every extent possible. It includes survivors having access to appropriate, accessible and safe services including:

Medical care as needed

Social support

Security

BAMF! will draw from a variety of resources, tools and actions to help support survivors onsite and in the off season which includes but is not limited to:

Affirming their dignity and respect;

Uphold confidentiality as outlined in Section 11.0;

If it is an on-site disclosure, support provided by the BAMF! Sexual Violence Support Team (Section 7.1), including support speaking with security and police when the situation dictates;

If it is an on-site disclosure, access to a fully private area within the Peacekeeper space where they can name people they do not want in the space and a dedicated harm reduction worker;

Information / resources at event;

Emailed list of support resource options. Section 12.2;

If it is an on-site disclosure, distinct wrist band to wear onsite to alert staff to offer extra assistance / supports / safety interventions;

If it is an on-site disclosure, access to the response team during showtime by coming to the Harm Reduction space or via the text call for help system;

If it is an on-site disclosure, option and assistance to move their camp to a more secure location on site as needed;

Clarity around timelines and communication methods and next steps;

If it is an on-site disclosure, co-create a safety plan, and

If it is an on-site disclosure,have reasonable and necessary actions taken to prevent further unwanted contact with the alleged perpetrator(s).

13.1. Annual Review

This Policy will be reviewed yearly in advance of the festival, based on data from the event, feedback from attendee survey and in collaboration with event security and medical. All links and resources to be confirmed as current and accurate.

13.2. At the managers post-event debrief, relevant teams will report back on the implementation of this Policy.

14.1 Onsite, Showtime (to be filled out, printed and shared across teams and displayed in sanctuary)

14.2 Washington State Resources

*This list of resources was largely compiled and shared by Make.Shift Art Space*

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS)

The mission of DVSAS is to support individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation and to lead the community towards ending these abuses of power. DVSAS offers a 24-Hour Helpline, walk-in advocacy counseling, support during medical exams, 911 safety planning, legal advocacy, support groups, and safe shelter services.

• 24 Hour Helpline: 360.715.1563

• Ask an Advocate

• Website: https://www.dvsas.org/

Lummi Victims of Crime (LVOC)

LVOC is here to help any adult or adolescent who has been affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, assault & battery, survivor of homicide, child abuse and sexual assault. LVOC offers crisis counseling, on-scene advocacy, safety planning, information & referral, legal advocacy, transportation assistance, domestic violence shelter, teen girls groups, therapy referrals, and traditional healing.

• Hotline: (360) 312-2015

• Email: olivias@lummi-nsn.gov

• Website: http://lummi-nsn.gov/

Bellingham-Whatcom County Commission on Sexual & Domestic Violence

The Bellingham-Whatcom County Commission on Sexual & Domestic Violence, formerly the Commission Against Domestic Violence (DV Commission), was created in 1998 by a joint resolution between the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County to provide leadership in the community’s efforts to reduce and prevent domestic violence. In 2019, the City and County expanded our mission to include addressing sexual violence. The Commission works with local agencies, government institutions, and community members to achieve change in the systems’ response to sexual and domestic violence by providing resources, support, and technical assistance.

• 2022-2023 Goals / Work Plan activities

Consultation and Sexual Assault Support (CASAS)

CASAS is available to students of all identities who have experienced any of the following recently or in the past: attempted assault, sexual assault, dating violence, attempted rape, harassment, physical violence, domestic violence, hate crimes, rape, indecent exposure, incest, stalking, molestation, or unwanted touching. CASAS offers emotional support, academic support, emergency leave, assistance with orders of protection, housing services, medical assistance, financial aid services, and assistance with reporting options.

• Phone: (360) 650-3700

• Location: Western Washington University Old Main 585B

• https://pws.wwu.edu/consultation-and-sexual-assault-support-casas

The NW Network of LGBTQIA2S+ Survivors of Abuse

The NW Network increases our communities’ ability to support the self-determination and safety of bisexual, transgender, lesbian and gay survivors of abuse through education, organizing and advocacy. We work within a broad liberation movement dedicated to social and economic justice, equality and respect for all people and the creation of loving, inclusive and accountable communities.

• Phone: (206) 568-7777

• Website: https://www.nwnetwork.org/

API Chaya

API Chaya empowers survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking to gain safety, connection, and wellness. We build power by educating and mobilizing South Asian, Asian, Pacific Islander, and all immigrant communities to end exploitation, creating a world where all people can heal and thrive.

• Helpline: 1-877-922-4292 (Toll-Free)/206-325-0325

• Helpline Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm

• Office Email: info@apichaya.org

• Office Phone: 206-467-9976

• Office Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm

• Website: https://www.apichaya.org/

Abused Deaf Woman’s Advocacy Services

Abused Deaf Women’s Advocacy Services empowers Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and harassment to transform their lives, while striving to change the beliefs and behaviors that foster and perpetuate violence. We provide comprehensive services to individuals and families, community education, and advocacy on systems and policy issues.

• E-mail: adwas@adwas.org

• Office: (206) 922-7088 (Voice/VP)

NATIONAL DEAF HOTLINE

• Website: thedeafhotline.org

• Email: hotline@adwas.org

• Local: 206-812-1001 (Voice/VP)

• National: 855-812-1001 (Voice/VP)

Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA)

ReWA is a non-profit, multi-ethnic organization that promotes inclusion, independence, personal leadership, and strong communities by providing refugee and immigrant women and their families with culturally and linguistically appropriate services. ReWA advocates for social justice, public policy changes, and equal access to services while respecting cultural values and the right to self-determination.

• Phone: Tel: 206.957.2029

• Email: info@rewa.org

• Domestic Violence Office

• Phone: 206.721.0243

• Evening multi-lingual helpline: 1(888) 847-7205

• Email: DVInformation@rewa.org

• Center for Social Emotional Well-Being

• Phone: 206-496-4330

• Email: CSEWintakes@rewa.org