NFSPS,Inc. Code of Conduct 

The National Federation of State Poetry Societies, Inc. (NFSPS, Inc.), including the BlackBerry Peach programming, is subject to the NFSPS, Inc. Non-Discrimination Policy. The following Code of Conduct applies to all behavior taking place during any NFSPS, Inc. or BlackBerry Peach event or contest, while representing NFSPS, Inc. or BlackBerry Peach, or in any public discourse regarding NFSPS, Inc. or BlackBerry Peach. 

NFSPS, Inc. Non-Discrimination & Inclusivity Policy: 

To promote inclusivity and spread love, peace, and positivity among our members, the National Federation of State Poetry Societies, Inc. does not discriminate based on age, color, ethnicity, race, national origin, disability, marital status, pregnancy, religion, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, or any legally protected classification in its practices, programs, or activities, and does not tolerate such discrimination, in written, spoken or other formats, from any participant. 

NFSPS, Inc. Code of Conduct: 

NFSPS, Inc. is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for all who engage with our events and contests in any capacity. Any violation of this code of conduct will result in disciplinary action as determined and enforced by the NFSPS, Inc. Conduct Review Committee. 

Anyone who participates in a NFSPS, Inc. event or contest must understand that the following behaviors are not tolerated: 

  • Hate speech and/or derogatory remarks against any legally protected identity, historically marginalized community, or identity classification listed in the NFSPS, Inc. Non-Discrimination & Inclusivity Policy 
  • Physical or sexual violence, harassment, or threats of any such actions
  • Plagiarism, fraud, or defamation   

NFSPS, Inc. Community Recommendations: 

We respect everyone’s right to free speech, and we do not censor poets. However, we urge participants to understand that free speech does not mean freedom from consequences. Disagreements are healthy and inevitable. We are all capable of perpetuating harm with our language. However, if harmful language is used and an impacted party wishes to have a respectful conversation about it, we encourage all those involved to engage in that conversation and learn from the experience. This is how we become better community members. 

We urge all participants to engage in our events and contests in a way that supports good sportsmanship and fosters a positive environment for all.