CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

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This Code of Conduct is binding for Orta Okul and all its collaborators. Orta Okul is a nomadic, multilingual art education platform that works toward educational justice and community-led cultural production. 

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We are committed to the principles of equality, anti-discrimination, inclusivity, and respect for diversity, and we actively work to uphold them.

 

Our Expectations from Collaborators

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We expect everyone we work with to:

 

• Treat all individuals with respect, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, age, religious belief, disability, physical appearance, national or cultural background, or socioeconomic status.
   

• Use inclusive language, show respect for gender identities, ethnic backgrounds, mother tongues, and different life experiences.
   

• Be mindful of participants’ needs, break times, and time-zone differences; and maintain communication within mutually agreed working hours and channels.
   

• Pay attention to deadlines and the agreed quality of work; and avoid creating unnecessary additional workload for others (such as repeated reminders or follow-ups).

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What We Do Not Tolerate

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In the spaces where we work, whether online or offline, we do not tolerate:

 

• Sexism, racism, religious discrimination, classism, or ableism.
   

• Derogatory or demeaning language, hate speech, or incitement to violence.
   

• Bullying, stereotyping, or abuse of authority.
   

• Narrow focus on Western, male, able-bodied artist figures while disregarding diversity and equal opportunity.
   

Examples of unacceptable behavior include:

 

• Discriminatory or insulting comments of any kind.
   

• Physical contact or visual/audio recordings without consent.
   

• Sexually explicit, racist, or inappropriate jokes.
   

• Harassment, intimidation, threats, or online bullying.
   

• Deliberate misgendering, misattribution of ethnicity, or belittling personal experiences.
   

• Intrusive comments or questions about private life (e.g., parenthood, relationship status).
   

Where This Code Applies

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These principles apply in all spaces where our activities take place, including:

 

• Physical and online events.
   

• Online communication (e-mail, video calls, messaging).
   

• Internal team correspondence.
   

• Social settings connected to events, such as after-parties, breaks, and feedback sessions.
   

Reporting and Confidentiality

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Reporting

 

• At every physical event, one or two responsible persons will be designated and introduced by name at the beginning of the event. Participants can contact them directly during the event.

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• After events, you may also reach us at: hello@ortaokul.info

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Confidentiality

 

• The identity and information of anyone making a report will be kept strictly confidential. Information will only be shared with authorized individuals for the purpose of reviewing and resolving the situation, and always with the consent of the reporting person.

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• Any breach of confidentiality will itself be treated as a violation of this Code of Conduct.

 

Principle of Trust

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• Reports made in good faith are taken as sufficient grounds for action. Testimonies or additional information may be requested if necessary, but no participant will be pressured to provide them.

 

Possible Consequences

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Depending on the nature and seriousness of the violation, the following measures may be taken:

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• Verbal warning
   

• Written warning
   

• Mandatory awareness or inclusivity training
   

• Temporary suspension from responsibilities
   

• Permanent removal from activities or positions
   

 

Scope

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This Code applies to:

 

• Core affiliates (editors, coordinators, project managers).

 

• Writers, trainers, and freelance collaborators (such as developers, designers, translators).

 

• Visitors and participants at public events.

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* This Code of Conduct was prepared by the Orta Okul and Orta Format teams, drawing inspiration from existing Codes of Conduct. With the exception of the introduction section, most of the content is shared; however, small differences may occur depending on the formats and methods adopted by each organization. In such cases, the relevant sections are highlighted in yellow. You are welcome to use this Code of Conduct as inspiration and adapt it to create models that best suit your own needs.