Code of Conduct
The culture of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is based on honesty, mutual respect, support and encouragement. As a member, volunteer, staff or participant in an activity of membership, Chapters, National Bodies, Guilds, events, online communities, webinars, social media, or other activities; I agree to uphold this Code of Conduct.
I understand that for our Community of Communities to thrive, we must live our Core Values throughout all levels of the Association. More specifically, I understand that SCA’s Code of Conduct prohibits harassment, discrimination and unethical behavior (incidents) and I am committed to upholding these Values and Code.
In abiding by the Code of Conduct, I agree to use good judgment in all situations, demonstrate respect to myself and others, practice professionalism and to take ownership for my actions and behaviors and understand the consequences that may result.
In the event that I am involved in or witness an incident that is in violation of the Code of Conduct, that I am encouraged to report the incident. I am aware that the SCA cannot address an incident if not made aware and are here to support, should the need arise.
If the SCA, in its reasonable judgment, believes I have violated the Code of Conduct, Core Values, committed a legal offense or exposed the SCA to liability, or damage to its reputation, the SCA reserves the right to remove me from SCA activities or to bar my future participation within the SCA, membership and other volunteer positions or activities.
Reporting Harassment or Other Conduct Violations
Reports of a Code of Conduct violation will be reviewed by SCA in accordance with each element of the Code of Conduct and SCA’s Core Values. Any person who believes that they have witnessed or experienced behavior or actions that is in direct violation of the Code of Conduct are encouraged to promptly report the incident to the SCA. The SCA cannot address anything that we are not made aware of.
Every effort will be made to preserve the confidentiality of those involved. This may not be possible through the course of actions necessary to research or resolve the incident. In no circumstances, will any person, who in good faith reports an incident of threats, intimidation or violence, or assists in its investigation, be subject to any form of retribution, retaliation or reprisal by the SCA.
WHEN TO REPORT
The SCA should be notified of a Code of Conduct violation (incident) that took place at an SCA affiliated event, gathering, or workshop either online or in person; and
The incident was committed by, or to: members, volunteers, attendees, staff; or
To a reasonable person, the incident is thought to be unethical, inappropriate or there is reason to believe that there is risk of further harm to others
If, at any time, the safety yourself of others is in jeopardy, contact on-site SCA staff or the local authorities.
Other SCA Policies
SCA is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property, or for injuries sustained during the course of an event.
No firearms or other weapons are ever allowed inside our events or on our premises.
Illegal drugs are never allowed inside of our events.
Alcohol may be served or be otherwise available; but disorderly conduct is never allowed.
Members doing willful damage to SCA property will be required to financially reimburse SCA or the venue.
We reserve the right to remove Members or Attendees if you violate this Code of Conduct.
Please respect those that do not wish to be photographed or recorded by asking permission to take pictures.
Have fun, be safe, be respectful and remember to use good judgment and professionalism in all situations.
Online Communities
The SCA’s Code of Conduct applies to all online communities administered and moderated by SCA staff and volunteer leadership. By joining any of our online communities, you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct.
If you experience or witness harassment, threatening behavior, or other inappropriate conduct in any of the online forums below, you are strongly encouraged to report it to the SCA.
POSTING GUIDELINES
SCA online communities exist to connect the coffee community around the globe. To keep our conversations friendly and professional, please abide by the following guidelines.
What kinds of things are acceptable to post on SCA online communities?
Questions and discussions related to the group's particular topic
Relevant articles you want to discuss with your community’s peers
Networking and connecting with others in relation to local/regional or other coffee events
Discussion of relevant happenings within or affecting your coffee community
What kinds of things are unacceptable to post on SCA online communities?
Classifieds or job postings (except for the AST Facebook Group where ASTs are encouraged to share job opportunities)
Product or service advertising
Any posts that do not abide by our Code of Conduct
Our moderators reserve the right to delete or hide posts and remove any members that violate any of the above guidelines.
Code of Conduct for Authorized SCA Trainers (ASTs)
The SCA Code of Conduct applies to all ASTs who hold a current and valid AST license and valid certifier license(s). As an AST, any inappropriate conduct will be treated with the utmost seriousness and could lead to the AST’s license being revoked or suspended.
Code of Conduct for National Chapter Committees
This Code of Conduct applies to all SCA national chapter committees. All members of the national chapter are expected to act in the best interests of the specialty coffee community and its members.
Download the Code of Conduct for SCA Chapter Committee Coordinators - Updated April 2020
Download the Code of Conduct for SCA Community Event Participants - Updated April 2020