EC is a Safe Space!

Here at EC, it is our goal to create an environment where everyone is treated with dignity, courtesy, and respect – and we know that people who regularly attend our events, shop at our store, or know any member of our “EC Family” can be confident that if they tell us someone is behaving poorly, we will ask that ill-mannered person to leave. But what of those people who are at EC for their first time? EC wants to be a safe space for all of our Guests, so we’re putting this in writing:

Emerald City will not tolerate any kind of harassment of our Guests. This includes unwanted, unwelcome, or uninvited physical contact or attention, offensive verbal comments, inappropriate jokes or propositions, stalking, harassing photography or recording, or any other behavior which makes a person feel humiliated, intimidated, or offended in regards to – but not limited to – their race, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, appearance, body type, or simply who they are.

People who violate these guidelines will be given an official First Warning by either a member of our Team or any member of our community. This warning may be phrased in an official sounding capacity such as “that is a violation of EC’s Harassment Guidelines” or it may be phrased in a more casual manner such as – but not limited to – “that makes me uncomfortable” or “that is inappropriate” and even “hey not cool, man.” These too are considered an official First Warning. There will be no Second Warning. If the behavior does not change, the offending party will simply be told they need to leave and be politely escorted out.

We realize that even the best of humans are flawed, imperfect beings; and with so many of our Guests coming from different parts of the world and walks of life, that some cultural differences may occur. And different people might have conflicting definitions of what “harassment” is. So everyone here is afforded the chance to correct a social faux pas – but they won’t get two. Those who can’t muster up the decency to respect each other, our community, EC, and also themselves just aren’t welcome – officially.

And because EC is your community as well as ours, we deputize each and every one of you to take part in the enforcement of these guidelines. Which means that your First Warning is just as official as ours is. In the event of an uncomfortable or awkward situation, we still ask that all parties treat everyone at EC with the kindness and respect they are due as fellow human beings.

These guidelines apply to all Guests, including featured Special Guests and also the EC Team – even the music we play. Simply, if it’s gotta go, then it’s gotta go. These Harassment Guidelines are in effect at EC always and forever. We will be adding a link to this page on our events so that these guidelines are clear to one and all.

EC has grown over the years as an entity and as people, and we will continue to evolve for the betterment of ourselves, our community, and the greater comics industry. So let’s join forces: fellow comic fans, fellow retailers and industry leaders, for a higher community standard and a greater, more welcoming comics industry for all.

A big thanks to all of you for helping us build and improve this amazing EC community!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  – Margaret Mead (1901-1978)