The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) convenes multiple conferences, forums, and workshops throughout the year. These professional events help fulfill ACEEE’s mission to act as a catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors. ACEEE brings together an array of policymakers, business leaders, industry representatives, government officials, researchers, consultants, and students.
As an inclusive, nonpartisan organization, ACEEE is committed to hosting conferences that are safe, hospitable, and harassment-free environments for everyone regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, or other group identity.
ACEEE is committed to diversity, equity, and the free expression of ideas and thus requires from its staff, conference participants, and vendors appropriate conduct that allows for the free exchange of competing ideas and concepts. ACEEE conferences provide a setting where all participants are to be valued and respected for their individuality and opinions in a considerate and collaborative manner.
ACEEE will not tolerate behaviors that create an environment that prevents attendees from learning, networking, and enjoying the company of colleagues. Specific behaviors that will not be tolerated include:
- Harassment or intimidation based on race, religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, appearance, gender identity, gender expression, or other legally-protected group status
- Sexual harassment or intimidation, including unwelcome sexual attention, stalking (physical or virtual), or unsolicited physical contact
- Distribution of written or graphic material that denigrates, shows hostility, aversion, or unwelcome attention
- Yelling at or threatening speakers or other participants (verbally or physically)
All participants are expected to observe these rules and behaviors in all conference venues and conference social events. Participants asked to stop a hostile or harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately and without retaliation. If conference participants do not abide by these rules, they may be removed from the premises, may not receive a refund, and may be banned from future ACEEE events at the discretion of ACEEE leadership.
If you believe you have been harassed or that a harassment problem exists, please contact a member of the on-site conference staff immediately. All such reports must be made before the end of the conference. The conference manager on duty will determine and carry out the appropriate course of action, and may consult with and engage other staff, leaders, and legal counsel as appropriate. Event security and/or local law enforcement may be involved, as appropriate, based on the specific circumstances. A follow-up report will be made available to individuals who report being harassed. Confidentiality will be honored to the extent permitted without compromising the ability to investigate complaints or the rights of others.
We at ACEEE are committed to make every participant’s experience as productive and professionally stimulating as possible.