Events & Workshops
The Centre Edge and its divisions (Sew Proud YYC, Pride & Paper Bits, & Yarn Crafting) exists to create spaces where people can explore creativity, identity, skill-building, and self-expression in community. Our workshops and events are built on the belief that everyone deserves access to spaces where they can show up as they are, learn something new, and feel respected while doing so.
This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations that help make that possible.
It applies to all participants attending Centre Edge events, both in-person and online.
Our Community Values
At The Centre Edge, we are building spaces that center:
Respect
Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity regardless of experience level, identity, background, or perspective.
Curiosity and learning
Many people attending our events are trying something new. Questions, mistakes, and experimentation are part of the process.
Consent and autonomy
People have the right to decide what they share, how they participate, and how they engage with others.
Accessibility and inclusion
Our community includes disabled, neurodivergent, queer, and otherwise marginalized individuals. We expect participants to help maintain an environment where everyone can participate safely.
Shared responsibility
Creating a welcoming space is a collective effort. Everyone contributes to the culture of the room.
Expectations for Participation
When attending Centre Edge events, participants are expected to:
- Treat others with respect and courtesy.
- Listen when others speak and allow space for multiple voices.
- Respect people’s identities, pronouns, and lived experiences.
- Ask for consent before offering physical assistance or touching someone or their work.
- Follow safety guidelines for tools, equipment, and shared materials.
- Be mindful of the shared space and help keep it welcoming and usable for others.
- Respect facilitator instructions and the flow of the workshop.
- Participate in ways that support a collaborative and learning-focused environment.
Accessibility and Nervous System Safety
We recognize that people participate in different ways and that workshops can involve sensory, social, or cognitive load.
Participants are welcome to:
- Take breaks when needed.
- Step away from the room and return when ready.
- Use stimming, fidgeting, or movement to self-regulate.
- Ask clarifying questions or request information in a different format.
We ask participants to respect that others may communicate or engage differently than they do.
Where possible, please also be mindful of scent use and sensory impacts in shared spaces.
Behaviours That Are Not Welcome
To maintain a safe and respectful environment, the following behaviours are not permitted at Centre Edge events:
- Harassment, intimidation, or bullying
- Racism, transphobia, homophobia, ableism, sexism, or other discriminatory behaviour
- Misgendering or refusal to respect someone’s stated identity
- Unwanted physical contact or invading personal space
- Photographing or recording participants without their consent
- Disrupting workshops or intentionally preventing others from participating
- Aggressive, hostile, or threatening language
- Attending events while intoxicated or under the influence in a way that affects the safety or comfort of others
- Misuse of tools, equipment, or materials that could cause harm
This list is not exhaustive. If a behaviour creates an unsafe or hostile environment, it may be addressed even if it is not specifically listed here.
Reporting Concerns
If something happens that makes you uncomfortable or unsafe during an event, please speak with a facilitator, volunteer, or Centre Edge team member.
We take concerns seriously and will do our best to respond thoughtfully and appropriately.
Participants are also welcome to contact us after an event if they would prefer to share feedback privately.
What Happens If This Code Is Violated
Our goal is always to address issues in ways that protect the safety of the community while remaining fair and respectful.
Depending on the situation, responses may include:
- A reminder of the Code of Conduct
- A conversation with the participant about the behaviour
- A request to leave the event
- Removal from the event without refund
- Suspension from future Centre Edge events
Serious or repeated violations may result in longer-term restrictions from participating in Centre Edge programs.
A Shared Commitment
The Centre Edge exists because people choose to show up with care, curiosity, and respect for one another.
By participating in our events, you are helping create a community where people can learn, experiment, and grow together.
Thank you for being part of that.