Code Of Conduct

HEALTH AND SAFETY OF FIGHTERS

1. Queer Fight Night (QFN) is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of its fighters by implementing comprehensive protocols and support systems.
2. The organization will ensure that all fighters undergo thorough pre-fight medical assessments (see Fighter Clearance Form in Attachments), to assess their fitness and readiness for competition.
3. Throughout the event, QFN will provide access to expert medical staff, including trainers, doctors, and mental health specialists, who will closely monitor fighters’ well-being.
4. In addition, the association aims to establish strict guidelines for concussion management and post-fight care, ensuring that any necessary recovery or rest periods are enforced.
5. QFN is dedicated to fostering a culture of safety through education, and implementing safeguards that protect both the physical and mental health of its athletes.

PHYSICAL SECURITY AND SAFEGUARDS

1. Queer Fight Night (QFN) is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of its fighters both inside and outside the competition arena.
2. The organization will implement a robust security system at all events, including on-site personnel, security teams, and surveillance measures to monitor for any potential threats.
3. Fighters will have access to secure facilities, with restricted access to ensure their privacy and safety throughout the event.
4. The association will also enforce strict protocols for handling sensitive situations, such as protecting fighters from harassment and ensuring fair treatment.
5. By prioritizing both physical and emotional security, QFN aims to create an environment where fighters can focus on their performance without concern for their well-being.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Applies To: Fighters, Coaches, Staff, Volunteers, Spectators, and Partners

Core Principles

1. Affirmation & Inclusion
   We affirm and celebrate the full spectrum of gender identities and sexual orientations. Our spaces center the safety, dignity, and joy of queer, trans, and nonbinary individuals.
2. Respect & Dignity
   All participants must treat one another with respect—regardless of identity, background, skill level, or experience.
3. Consent & Boundaries
   Combat sports involve physical contact—consent and boundaries are paramount. All physical and verbal interactions must be based on mutual respect and ongoing communication.
4. Equity & Access
   We actively work to dismantle barriers in combat sports, including those based on racism, ableism, classism, fatphobia, misogyny, transphobia, and homophobia.

Expectations for Behavior

Fighters & Coaches

1. Use correct names and pronouns at all times.
2. Train and compete with integrity, care, and sportsmanship.
3. Honor opponents as comrades, not enemies.
4. Refrain from hate speech, slurs, or any form of bullying.
5. Respect rules around weight classes, divisions, and equipment, including inclusive policies.

Event Staff & Volunteers

1. Enforce rules with fairness and transparency.
2. Maintain confidentiality around sensitive information (e.g., medical or gender-related).
3. Provide accessible accommodations when requested.
4. Address incidents swiftly and with care

Spectators & Community Members

1. Cheer with pride, not prejudice.
2. Do not heckle, misgender, or harass anyone.
3. Follow the venue’s guidelines and respect posted boundaries.

Zero Tolerance for Harm

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in immediate removal or permanent banning:

1. Misgendering (intentional or repeated)
2. Harassment or stalking (in-person or online)
3. Sexual misconduct or non-consensual touching
4. Racism, transphobia, homophobia, ableism, or other discrimination
5. Intimidation or threats of violence outside of agreed competition
6. Sharing private or medical information without consent

Accountability Process

We value transformative justice and community accountability. In the event of a conflict or harm:

1. Report – Incidents can be reported anonymously or openly to the appropriate individual(s).
2. Review – A trained committee will investigate fairly and confidentially.
3. Respond – Responses may include mediation, suspension, education, or expulsion***
4. Restore – We aim to repair relationships and foster learning, when possible.

Our Commitment

This Code of Conduct is a living document, shaped by the community it serves. We will regularly review and revise it based on feedback, emerging needs, and collective wisdom.

*** QFN and its Board reserve the right to dismiss and/or bar anyone from attending and participating in any events run by QFN if it is determined that the Code of Conduct had been intentionally violated, causing harm to the organization, the community or its affiliates.