At John Hansard Gallery, part of University of Southampton, we love this artwork ‘You Belong Here’ by Asten Holmes-Elliott and Breakout Youth. We wholeheartedly believe in and stand behind its message that everyone belongs and is welcome here.
A person’s race, ethnicity, appearance, gender, sexuality, age, health, abilities, choices, experience and beliefs all form part of their identity. We all have the right to be treated equally and with respect, and no one should experience discrimination or harassment because of who they are.
We want everyone to enjoy the experience of being here. Art can inspire strong feelings and we want you to be free to respond in a way that respects the dignity and difference of others. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive space for all.
On entering our Gallery, you have agreed to abide by our Code of Conduct:
BE MINDFUL OF THE LANGUAGE THAT YOU USE
Please be kind, polite and respectful to others. We will challenge the use of any discriminatory language.
BEWARE OF PRECONCEPTIONS
Keep an open mind. Everyone has a different life experience and perspectives and may be struggling with challenges that are not always apparent.
YOU MAY BE IN A PRIVILEGED POSITION WITHOUT EVEN REALISING IT
The world is full of both visible and invisible barriers. Be aware that you may be in a more advantaged position than you realise, when compared with other people.
RESPECT THE BOUNDARIES OF OTHERS
Unless invited, please do not invade other people’s personal or emotional space. Other people may not have the same physical and emotional boundaries as you. Always respect the word ‘no’. If someone says ‘no’, or asks you to stop something, then please stop.
CHECK HOW PEOPLE WANT TO BE ADDRESSED
The misuse of pronouns can sometimes cause upset or offence, so try to avoid making assumptions. Ask people how they wish to be addressed, and please respect their choices.
ASK PERMISSION TO PHOTOGRAPH
If you are taking photographs, please ask people before including them in your photographs. As an organisation, we occasionally photograph and film activity and events for our archive – we will always let you know when this is happening so you can opt out if you wish.
LOOK AFTER ONE ANOTHER
We’re all in this space together, please be considerate and treat one another with kindness, fairness and respect. We all belong here!
Please note: Our Code of Conduct exists in relation to the University of Southampton’s Equality and Diversity Policy, Dignity at Work and Study Policy, and national legal frameworks including the Equality Act and Hate Crime legislation.