Code of Conduct

We adhere to a Code of Conduct to keep FWD-Doc a welcoming, on-topic, inclusive, intersectional, and engaging group that serves disabled filmmakers. When we use the term ‘disability/disabled person’ in this document, we are using the social model of disability that also includes d/Deaf, HOH (hard of hearing), chronically ill, neurodiverse people, those with mental health conditions, and all people who wish to self-identify under any additional term. 

This Code of Conduct is a reflection of our values in practice, and we expect anyone interacting with FWD-Doc in these spaces to adhere to it. This Code of Conduct is a breathing document, which may change and be updated as warranted.

  • We are a global, intersectional community of disabled creators and allies, rooted in documentary film, that champions and elevates stories by, for, and about disabled people across all types of media.

  • This is a community is dedicated to filmmaking by disabled people. In our online community spaces, we welcome…

    • ProjectsPosts — posts about media projects by and/or about disabled people

    • Accessible job postings and professional opportunities —if providing recommendations, please only promote courses, crew, or people who you have personal experience with, as if you were vouching for them.

    • Self-promotion and fundraising posts — these should be limited to project you are directly connected to, or that are directly connected to disability film and media.

  • We foster a kind and respectful environment for productive discussion, free from bullying or trolling.

    We do not tolerate insults or bullying, and if you are found doing this, you will receive an immediate ban. This includes respecting the pronouns of all members. 

    We do not tolerate hurtful language, discrimination, abuse, marginalization, or insulting behavior on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, religion, background, skin color, religious belief, sexuality, gender identity, socio-economic class, caste, disability, age or any other historically marginalized identity.

  • We are committed to intersectionality, which encourages solidarity, highlighting that all struggles for freedom from oppression are interlinked and that they can all benefit by acknowledging, respecting and interacting with each other. Please see the Intersectionality Resource Guide & Toolkit for more info.

  • Ensure your posts and the events or films you are promoting are accessible and clearly provide accessibility information.

    Images, Graphics & Videos:

    • Image descriptions and alt text are always required for images and graphics.

    • Captions, audio description and video descriptions are required for videos, where appropriate.

    Events:

    • All industry events that you share with our community must be live captioned and/or have sign language interpreters in the appropriate language — ideally both.

    • Speakers at your events include visual descriptions, pronouns, and land acknowledgments when they introduce themselves.

    • If the event is in person, you must provide information about the venue’s accessibility or ADA compliance.

    Please review FWD-Doc’s Toolkit and Engagement Pack for more info.

  • FWD-Doc prohibits spam or advertising that does not pertain to disability media.

    If you are disabled and want to promote your professional services related to media or accessibility, you are welcome to post about your offerings periodically.

    Posts sharing resources that benefit our community — technology advancements and accessibility-improving products, disability news —are acceptable. 

  • FWD-Doc celebrates disabled filmmakers and industry workers, the work they create, and our community.

    We work as a unified voice to the industry advocating for authentic representation, accessibility, and opportunities for disabled filmmakers.