OpenEugene (EugeneTech) is a community built on the mission of “Building and promoting an open, inclusive, and supportive ecosystem for creators, innovators, and changemakers.”
We welcome tech professionals, artists, designers, writers, entrepreneurs, makers, and anyone who wants to be part of a collaborative and supportive space. Whether you’re here to share ideas, seek help, or connect with like-minded people, we expect interactions to be respectful, inclusive, and constructive. This Code of Conduct applies to all EugeneTech spaces, including Slack, social media, the Switchboard, and any in-person or virtual events.
Our Core Community Values
Inclusivity & Respect
We celebrate diversity and believe that different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives strengthen our community. Everyone deserves to feel safe, welcome, and valued.
Collaboration & Creativity
Whether you’re a coder, a designer, an entrepreneur, a storyteller, or a dreamer—we grow by learning from each other and supporting each other’s work. Constructive discussions and shared knowledge help us all thrive.
Thoughtful Communication
Words matter. Respectful and inclusive language is expected at all times. We do not tolerate harassment, hate speech, or exclusionary behavior in any form.
A Safe & Supportive Space
Our goal is to maintain a positive, uplifting environment where people can share ideas without fear of judgment or hostility. If you see something that goes against this, speak up or reach out to a moderator.
Community Guidelines
- Be respectful. Assume good intentions, but recognize the impact of your words.
- Disagree without being disagreeable—debate ideas, not people.
- No hate speech, discrimination, or harassment. This includes offensive comments about gender, race, ethnicity, ability, age, sexual orientation, immigration status, or any personal identity.
- Keep discussions constructive and relevant. Avoid divisive or unrelated debates that don’t align with our mission.
Foster a culture of learning. Ask questions, offer feedback, and be open to different perspectives.
Creating a Safe and Inviting Space
EugeneTech is a community where everyone should feel included. We encourage members to be mindful of their language and actions.
The EugeneTech Switchboard (Asks & Offers)
The Switchboard is where we help each other by sharing resources, opportunities, and support. You can post:
- Asks – When you’re looking for advice, recommendations, or help.
- Offers – When you have skills, knowledge, or resources to share.
Best Practices for Posting:
- Who – Introduce yourself. Keep it personable!
- Who it’s for – Who would benefit from this Ask or Offer?
- What – Clearly state what you need or what you’re offering.
- Why – Why should people get involved?
- When – If there’s a deadline or event date, include it.
- Where – Is it online, local, or remote?
Pro Tip: Add links to provide more info, and double-check them before posting!
What NOT to Do
If you’re unsure whether something belongs in this space, here are some examples of what not to do:
- Personal attacks or discriminatory remarks – This includes racist, sexist, ableist, homophobic, or other offensive comments.
- Trolling, harassment, or repeated negativity – This community is for uplifting and supporting each other.
- Unwelcome or inappropriate contact – Including deliberate misgendering, unsolicited messages, and ignoring requests to stop.
- Rants, off-topic debates, or excessive self-promotion – Keep discussions constructive, engaging, and relevant.
- Targeting or arguing with moderators – Moderators are volunteers who help keep the space respectful and inclusive.
This is a space for connection, creativity, and collaboration—not negativity.
Accountability & Consequences
We rarely need to enforce rules beyond a friendly reminder, but if necessary, here’s how we handle violations:
- Friendly Reminder – A moderator will privately reach out if something crosses a line.
- Formal Warning – If behavior continues, a clear warning will be given.
- Temporary Suspension – Repeat violations may lead to a temporary removal.
- Permanent Ban – If someone refuses to follow the guidelines, they will be removed.
Luckily, our community is awesome, and serious action is rarely needed. But we are committed to keeping this space safe, inclusive, and welcoming.
Thank You for Being Part of OpenEugene!
This community thrives because of YOU. Thank you for helping make EugeneTech a space where creators, makers, and innovators—from tech to arts to everything in between—can connect, learn, and grow.