At Sojourner Truth House, we aim to cultivate a space rooted in dignity, mutual care, hospitality, and respect. We recognize that no space can be perfectly “safe” for everyone at all times, but together we commit to creating a safer and more accountable environment for all who enter.
Respect one another.
We honor people’s identities, backgrounds, beliefs, experiences, names, and pronouns. We commit to not reproducing racism, sexism, ageism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, religious discrimination, xenophobia, or other forms of oppression.
Respect physical and emotional boundaries.
Always seek clear consent before physical contact and be mindful of one another’s personal boundaries.
Listen with care.
Practice active listening and allow others to speak without interruption. Seek understanding before responding.
Speak from your own experience.
Use “I” statements rather than speaking for others or making broad assumptions about groups of people.
Make space for others.
Be mindful of how much space you are taking up in conversations and of the privileges or positionality you may carry. Step back when needed and encourage quieter voices.
Communicate accessibly.
Try to speak clearly, avoid unnecessarily complicated language, and help make conversations welcoming and accessible to everyone.
Confidentiality matters.
Images, stories and personal experiences shared within the house should be treated with care and discretion unless explicitly stated otherwise. Children cannot give informed consent.
Intent does not erase impact.
We all make mistakes. If harm occurs, we commit to listening, reflecting, apologizing where needed, and working toward repair together.
Challenge behavior, not people.
We aim to hold one another accountable with compassion and respect, while addressing harmful behaviour when it arises. We strive not to shame, compete with, or put one another down.
Disagreement can exist respectfully.
We welcome thoughtful dialogue and differing perspectives. We aim to approach one another with curiosity, humility, and compassion.
Care for the shared space.
Help maintain a welcoming environment through kindness, cleanliness, cooperation, and consideration for others.
Shared accountability.
Creating a respectful and accountable community is a collective responsibility shared by volunteers, guests, staff, and visitors alike. If serious breaches of these agreements occur, Sojourner Truth House may initiate a supportive accountability or mediation process to help restore safety for those affected.
Substance-free space.
Sojourner Truth House is an alcohol-free and drug-free space.