Why we have a code of conduct
The convention is a family reunion for the Bali Nyonga community across Europe and beyond. We want every guest, volunteer, performer, vendor and sponsor to feel welcome, respected and safe, from the first Meet and Greet to the last goodbye. This code applies to everyone, at every event on the estate, on our shuttles and tours, and in our online spaces.
Respect for each other
- Treat everyone with courtesy, whatever their age, chapter, country, language, gender, faith, disability or background.
- Respect our elders, our traditions and the Fon of Bali Nyonga, and the protocol of each ceremony.
- Disagree kindly, especially at the General Assembly and the executive meeting. Speak to the issue, not the person.
- Harassment, intimidation, discrimination and unwanted physical contact are never acceptable.
Respect for our culture
- Culture is at the centre of the convention. Follow the guidance of the cultural committee and the masters of ceremony.
- Some moments, such as parts of the Lela, may not be filmed or photographed. Watch for signs and announcements.
- Wear uniforms and Toghu with pride, and look after borrowed regalia.
Safety
- Follow the instructions of the venue staff, stewards and volunteers, especially in an emergency.
- Look after children in your care. Children taking part in the children’s programme must be signed in and out by a parent or guardian.
- Keep walkways, fire exits and stage areas clear.
- If you see something that worries you, tell a steward or the welcome desk straight away.
Alcohol
- Alcohol is served only to adults aged 18 and over, in line with UK law and the venue’s licence. Bar staff may ask for ID.
- Please drink responsibly. We may refuse service or ask someone to leave if their behaviour affects others.
- Never buy alcohol for anyone under 18.
- Driving after drinking is dangerous and illegal. Use the shuttles or a taxi.
Photography and consent
- We have photographers at the convention to capture the weekend for the magazine and for families.
- If you don’t want to be photographed, ask at the welcome desk for a no-photo lanyard. Photographers will respect it.
- Always ask before photographing or filming other people, and especially before posting pictures of children online. Respect a “no”.
- Don’t photograph or film children other than your own without their parent or guardian’s permission.
Online
The same standards apply in WhatsApp groups, on social media and on LelaHub. Don’t share private information, pictures or recordings of others without their permission.
How to report a concern
If something happens that breaks this code, or you feel unsafe:
- tell any steward, volunteer in a convention T-shirt or the welcome desk, at any time during the weekend;
- or message the welcome desk on WhatsApp;
- or email safeguarding@bcaeurope.org, before, during or after the convention.
You can report something that happened to you or that you saw happen to someone else. We will listen, take it seriously and treat it confidentially. Concerns about a child or a vulnerable adult are handled under the safeguarding policy.
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 (UK) first.
What happens next
The convention team will decide on any action, which may include a warning, asking someone to leave the event without a refund, or, where needed, contacting the police. Decisions are made fairly and as quickly as possible.