**Des Moines GMRS Radio Club - Content and Conduct Policy**
**1. Introduction**
This Content and Conduct Policy (the "Policy") outlines the standards of behavior and content that are expected of all members, guests, and affiliates of the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club . This Policy applies to all Club activities, including but not limited to:
* Club meetings (in-person and virtual)
* The Club's website (www.gmrsdesmoines.org)
* The Club's social media presence (e.g., Facebook group)
* Club-sponsored events
* Any communication representing the Club
Adherence to this Policy is essential for maintaining a respectful, informative, and trustworthy environment for all members and for upholding the Club's reputation.
**2. Core Principles**
All content and conduct related to the Club must adhere to the following core principles:
* **Respect:** Treat all individuals with courtesy, consideration, and respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or opinions.
* **Accuracy:** Strive for accuracy and truthfulness in all information shared.
* **Confidentiality:** Respect the privacy and confidentiality of discussions held within Club meetings.
* **Compliance:** Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and the rules of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding radio communications.
* **Integrity:** Act with honesty and integrity in all Club-related activities.
**3. Prohibited Content and Conduct**
The following types of content and conduct are strictly prohibited:
* **Hate Speech:** Any content that promotes violence, incites hatred, or disparages individuals or groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic. This includes, but is not limited to, slurs, stereotypes, and derogatory remarks.
* **Misinformation and Disinformation:** The deliberate or reckless dissemination of false or misleading information. Members should verify the accuracy of information before sharing it through Club channels.
* **Harassment and Bullying:** Any form of harassment, bullying, intimidation, or personal attacks directed at other members or individuals.
* **Defamation:** Making false or damaging statements about individuals or organizations.
* **Illegal Activities:** Promoting or engaging in any illegal activities, including but not limited to unauthorized radio transmissions, violation of FCC regulations, and copyright infringement.
* **Commercial Solicitation:** Using Club channels for unauthorized commercial solicitation or advertising or promoting other clubs without prior approval from the Club's leadership.
* **Breach of Confidentiality:** Disclosing confidential information shared during Club meetings or private communications without the express consent of all parties involved. Specifically, repeating information shared within club meetings outside of the meeting is prohibited.
* **Disruptive Behavior:** Engaging in disruptive behavior that interferes with Club meetings also side discussion during meetings, events, or activities.
* **Impersonation:** Impersonating another member or individual.
* **Violation of Privacy:** Sharing personal information about another member without their consent.
**4. Content Moderation and Enforcement**
* **Responsibility:** All members share the responsibility for upholding this Policy.
* **Reporting:** Any member who witnesses or experiences a violation of this Policy should report it to the Club's President, Vice President, or designated Board Member. Reports should be submitted in writing (email is acceptable) and include specific details about the incident, including dates, times, and individuals involved.
* **Investigation:** The Club's leadership will investigate all reported violations promptly and impartially.
* **Disciplinary Action:** Depending on the severity of the violation, disciplinary action may include:
* Warning
* Suspension of Club privileges (e.g., access to the Website, social media groups, participation in events)
* Expulsion from the Club
**5. Specific Guidelines for Club Meetings**
* **Confidentiality:** Discussions held during Club meetings are considered confidential and should not be repeated or shared outside of the meeting without the express consent of all parties involved. This is to encourage open and honest communication.
* **Respectful Dialogue:** All members are expected to engage in respectful dialogue and avoid personal attacks or disruptive behavior.
* **Agenda Adherence:** Stay on topic and adhere to the meeting agenda.
* **Time Management:** Be mindful of meeting time and allow others to speak.
**6. Specific Guidelines for Website and Social Media**
* **Accuracy:** Ensure that all information posted on the Website and social media is accurate and up-to-date.
* **Respectful Communication:** Maintain a respectful tone in all online communications.
* **Moderation:** The Club's designated moderators will monitor the Website and social media channels for violations of this Policy and take appropriate action.
* **Copyright:** Respect copyright laws and obtain permission before posting copyrighted material.
* **Privacy:** Avoid posting personal information about other members without their consent.
**7. Bylaws Governing the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club**
In addition to this Content and Conduct Policy, the following bylaws govern the operation of the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club:
* **Article I: Name:** The name of this organization shall be the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club.
* **Article II: Purpose:** The purpose of this Club is to promote interest in GMRS radio, provide a forum for members to share knowledge and experiences, and support emergency communications in the Des Moines area.
* **Article III: Membership:**
* Membership is open to any individual interested in GMRS radio with valid license.
* The President and Vice President may revoke membership for violations of the Content and Conduct Policy or other conduct detrimental to the Club.
* **Article IV: Officers:**
* The officers of the Club shall be a President, Vice President, Secretary.
* The President shall preside over meetings, oversee Club activities, and represent the Club to outside organizations.
* The Vice President shall assist the President and assume the President's duties in their absence.
* The Secretary shall keep minutes of meetings, and handle Club correspondence.
* **Article V: Meetings:**
* Regular Club meetings shall be held [monthly] at a time and location to be determined by the President and Vice President.
* Special meetings may be called by the President or Vice President.
* **Article VI: Dissolution:** Upon dissolution of the Club, any remaining assets shall be donated to a non-profit organization with a similar purpose, as determined by the President and Vice President.
**8. Policy Updates**
This Policy may be updated or revised from time to time by the Club's President and Vice President. Members will be notified of any changes.
**9. Disclaimer**
This Policy is intended to provide guidance on acceptable conduct and content. It is not exhaustive and does not cover every possible situation. The Club reserves the right to take action in any situation that it deems to be detrimental to the Club or its members. This policy is not a substitute for legal advice.
**10. Acknowledgement**
By becoming a member of the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Content and Conduct Policy.
**Important Considerations and Recommendations:**
* **Enforcement Consistency:** Consistent and fair enforcement of this policy is crucial. Document all reports and actions taken.
* **Flexibility:** Be prepared to adapt this policy as needed based on experience and changing circumstances.
* **Accessibility:** Make this policy easily accessible to all members (e.g., post it on the website, distribute copies at meetings and Facebook Group).
* **Regular Review:** Review and update this policy at least annually.
## GMRS Des Moines Radio Club - Content Policy and Code of Conduct
This Content Policy and Code of Conduct (the "Policy") governs all content created, shared, or disseminated by the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club (the "Club"), including but not limited to content shared during meetings, on the Club's website, social media platforms (including Facebook), and any other official Club communication channels. This Policy aims to foster a respectful, informative, and trustworthy environment for all members and the public.
**I. Core Principles:**
All content associated with the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club must adhere to the following principles:
* **Respect:** Treat all individuals with courtesy and respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or opinions.
* **Accuracy:** Strive for factual accuracy and avoid spreading misinformation or unsubstantiated claims.
* **Confidentiality:** Respect the privacy and confidentiality of information shared within Club meetings.
* **Professionalism:** Maintain a professional and responsible demeanor in all communications.
* **Compliance:** Adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, including FCC regulations and relevant state and federal laws.
**II. Prohibited Content:**
The following types of content are strictly prohibited and will be subject to removal and potential disciplinary action, up to and including termination of membership:
* **Hate Speech:** Content that promotes violence, incites hatred, or dehumanizes individuals or groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic. This includes, but is not limited to:
* Derogatory slurs and epithets.
* Promotion of discriminatory ideologies.
* Statements that incite violence or hatred.
* **Misinformation and Disinformation:** Content that is demonstrably false, misleading, or deliberately intended to deceive. This includes, but is not limited to:
* Spreading false or unsubstantiated claims about public health, safety, or etc.
* Fabricating or manipulating evidence to support false narratives.
* Impersonating others to spread misinformation.
* **Harassment and Bullying:** Content that is intended to harass, intimidate, or bully another individual. This includes, but is not limited to:
* Personal attacks and insults.
* Cyberstalking and doxing.
* Repeated unwanted contact.
* **Confidential Information Disclosure:** Sharing information disclosed during Club meetings outside of the meeting without the express consent of all parties involved. This includes, but is not limited to:
* Disclosing personal information shared in confidence.
* Repeating sensitive discussions or debates outside the meeting.
* Sharing internal Club documents or communications without authorization.
* **Illegal Activities:** Content that promotes or facilitates illegal activities, including but not limited to:
* Violating FCC regulations.
* Engaging in unlicensed radio operations.
* Distributing illegal materials.
* **Commercial Solicitation:** Unauthorized commercial advertising or solicitation is prohibited on Club platforms. Exceptions may be made for Club-sponsored events or with prior approval from the Club leadership.
* **Political Endorsements:** The Club will not endorse any political candidates or parties. Members are free to express their personal political views on there free time, but must do so in a manner that does not imply Club endorsement or affiliation.
**III. Content Moderation and Enforcement:**
* **Designated Moderators:** The Club leadership (President, Vice President, Secretary) will serve as the primary content moderators. They are responsible for monitoring Club platforms and enforcing this Policy.
* **Reporting Mechanism:** Members are encouraged to report any content that violates this Policy to the designated moderators. Reports should be submitted with clear evidence of the violation. Reports should be emailed to [
* **Investigation and Action:** The moderators will investigate all reported violations promptly and impartially. If a violation is confirmed, the moderators will take appropriate action, which may include:
* Removing the offending content.
* Issuing a warning to the offending member.
* Suspending the offending member's privileges.
* Terminating the offending member's membership.
* **Appeals Process:** Members who believe they have been unfairly penalized may appeal the decision to the Club leadership. The appeal must be submitted in writing within [7] days of the initial decision. The Club leadership will review the appeal and render a final decision.
**IV. Meeting Confidentiality:**
* **"What Happens in the Meeting, Stays in the Meeting":** Discussions and debates held during Club meetings are considered confidential unless explicitly stated otherwise. Members are expected to respect the privacy of their fellow members and refrain from repeating sensitive information shared during meetings outside of the meeting environment.
* **No Repeater Use:** Information discussed in meetings will not be repeated or broadcasted on any repeater system without the express permission of the Club leadership.
* **Exceptions:** The confidentiality rule does not apply to information that is already publicly available or that is required to be disclosed by law.
**V. Bylaws Governing the Radio Club:**
In addition to this Content Policy, the Des Moines GMRS Radio Club will operate under the following bylaws:
* **Membership:**
* Eligibility: Membership is open to individuals who hold a valid GMRS license or are actively pursuing one.
* Voting Rights: Members in good standing are eligible to vote on Club matters.
* Termination: Membership may be terminated for violation of this Policy, or other conduct deemed detrimental to the Club.
* **Meetings:**
* Agenda: The meeting agenda will be determined by the Club leadership.
* **Officers:**
* Positions: The Club will have the following officers: President, Vice President, Secretary.
* **Amendments:**
* This Policy and the bylaws may be amended by President and Vice President.
**VI. Disclaimer:**
The Des Moines GMRS Radio Club is not responsible for the content posted by individual members. However, the Club reserves the right to remove any content that violates this Policy and to take appropriate action against members who violate this Policy.
**VII. Policy Updates:**
This Policy will be reviewed and updated periodically by the Club leadership. Members will be notified of any changes to the Policy.
By participating in the GMRS Des Moines Radio Club, you agree to abide by this Content Policy and Code of Conduct. Your cooperation is essential in creating a positive and productive environment for all members.