Mature Behavior VS. Sexual Harassment

Jesse Grabowski

Virtuous
Marshal
Hey folks,

I wanted to mention a few things I have noticed about larping over the years and again this event.

There are snuggle parties, cuddle pile-ups, and lap sitting galore among PCs and NPCs. This I have witnessed over the years in many larps. This is usually done with people who feel comfortable with each other and have expressed permission to do so. We are a mature game with mature themes.

However, permission is the key word. Many people are not comfortable with touching, even sometimes with close friends. We are a community who respects boundaries. Even if you mean to simply give a reassuring hug or a small pat on someone's back, they might not feel comfortable with this. Please ask. Also apologize if you forget to ask and find yourself doing this. I was guilty of this myself, even though I did it out of compassion. This does not make it ok and I apologized.

Furthermore, dialogue can be just as off-putting to someone and can be seen as borderline/blatant sexual harassment. Be mindful of what you say both in and out of game. Be respectful of one another. Our game is not the environment to discuss/debate with strangers you've just met the topics of sexual identity/gender/preference/lifestyles/politics/religion... or any other topic that might make people feel uncomfortable.

In addition, sexual harassment will not be tolerated at Alliance Denver and actions will be taken if I receive reports of sexual harassment taking place at our events. We have created a wonderful and friendly community and I will strive to keep this family as a safe environment for all.

I urge you to contact customer service if you were involved in such an incident so that we may act.

Thank you for listening,
Jesse
 
Looking back on the weekend, I can think of a time or two when I may have assumed and hugged or patted an NPC without gaining consent first with what was what I had hoped was a reassuring hug and I believe a pat on the back as well. I am sorry for not gaining consent first and will be sure to watch my interactions more closely. As this is inappropriate behavior I would appreciate being called out on it if anyone catches me doing it again as that is not acceptable. While my intentions were in friendship and high spirits of a good LARP that is no excuse for assuming contact that is unwanted and I am truly sorry. I'd like to think that I'm better about this, but I do know of a couple times I lapsed this weekend and will not hide from that. Know that I am sorry and there is no need to publicly accept the apology.
 
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