East Coast Gaming Expo is dedicated to having a space where everyone can enjoy their convention experience and have a fun time. Because we seek to foster a SAFE, cooperative, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all, we have the following important rules for behavior at our conventions which must be followed at all times. In general, as a part of our community, you are also expected to uphold these ideals and exemplify them to others. Here are the rules:
DO NOT attend ECGX if you are sick, or have any symptoms of Covid-19 or other transmissible illness or infection
- No violence. This includes but is not limited to:
- Pushing, shoving, or use of any physical force or threats
- Intentionally or unintentionally putting someone in a dangerous situation
- Hitting, punching, slapping or kicking
- Deliberate intimidation
- Unwanted/unwelcome physical or sexual contact
- Violent, threatening and/or tumultuous behavior which may cause alarm to others
No harassment. This includes but is not limited to:
- Physically or verbally threatening behavior towards anyone or no-one
- Racial, religious, ability, life orientation or ethnic slurs. NO BULLIES OR RACISTS ALLOWED, PERIOD.
- Stalking, and/or other conduct which is obstructive to the comfort of others
- Using sexually explicit or offensive language or conduct
- Unwanted physical attention/contact
No illegal activity, including:
- Possession, use, sales, or distribution of Illegal/controlled substances
- Underage consumption of alcohol or other altering substances
- Visible intoxication by any person is not permitted at the con
No weapons:
- No firearms (guns), edged weapons, brass knuckles, dirks, daggers, tasers, stun guns, pepper spray, or any other item, or replica of an item which is dangerous, or may cause the alarm of others
Photography/filming:
While no person may film or otherwise photograph another person without their explicit permission, by purchasing admission to the convention, attendees are hereby notified that they may be filmed or photographed for promotional and other use by the convention. By attending, you are granting us permission to use such photography or other recording.
Admission to the event:
- All persons attending the event MUST display their properly issued ECGX badge. This includes all attendees, vendors, exhibitors, special guests and staff. Failure to display a properly issued ECGX badge while at the con will result in immediate ejection.
- It is a violation of this code of conduct to be present in any closed or off-limits area. Violation of this policy will result in the immediate ejection from the venue, and possible criminal prosecution.
- ECGX badges are not transferrable once the badge has been issued at registration. Use of badges by those other than to whom the badge was issued will be ejected, and the badge confiscated.
The decisions regarding these items are made by East Coast Gaming Expo staff or management and are FINAL.
The aforementioned list is not all inclusive, and the staff and management are the final arbiters of what else may constitute a violation for the purposes of this policy. Any form of physical aggression will result in the immediate ejection of the offending party. As appropriate and at the offended party’s discretion, a report may also be filed with the local authorities. For other forms of harassment, within reason, you will receive only ONE warning from staff. Further offenses will result in your ejection from the convention without refund and potential exclusions from future events.
If a person tells you NO, your contact with them is finished. If you continue to attempt to have contact with those people, you may be removed from the premises. Remember: “No” means no. “Stop” means stop. “Go away” means go away.
If you believe someone is violating the code of conduct we ask that you report it to a member of the ECGX staff, or email support@ecgxpo.com
All reports will be kept confidential, except where disclosure is required by law. In some cases we may determine that a public statement will be released. If that’s the case, the identities of all victims and reporters will remain confidential unless those individuals instruct us otherwise. Reports of obvious criminal activity will be reported to the police.
If you believe anyone is in immediate physical danger, or in need of medical attention, please notify appropriate emergency services (call 911) first. If you are unsure what service to contact, find a con volunteer (Guardian in orange shirt) or staff member and we will assist you.
In your report please include:
Your contact info for follow-up contact.
Names (legal, nicknames, stage names or pseudonyms) of any individuals involved.
If there were other witnesses besides you, please try to include them as well.
When and where the incident occurred. Be as specific as possible.
Your account of what occurred.
Any additional information of the incident.
Whether you believe this incident is ongoing.
Any other information you believe we should have.
ECGX is a fun weekend that people of all ages and backgrounds look forward to all year. It is a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, let your hair down and just have a good time. Cosplay is not consent. If someone asks you to stop and leave them alone, stop and leave them alone. Treat others with respect. Have fun!
