Principles for a Safer and Bolder Space
The city of Oulu is committed to following the principles for a safer and bolder space. The principles mean a set of directions on how to act considerately and respectfully toward everyone in spaces and events.
The goal of the principles is to make every person feel welcome regardless of their personal traits or minority status. The promotion of equality and prevention of discrimination are written into Finnish law: Non-Discrimination Act. Authorities are obligated to promote the implementation of equality in their operations.
In a safe and bold space, everyone can feel welcome and be themselves naturally.
You may read the city of Oulu’s general principles for a safer and bolder space and add new principles to the poster template.
The city of Oulu’s principles for a safer and bolder space
Everyone has the right to be seen, heard and accepted just as they are
We meet each other with respect, without prejudice
We respect everyone and everyone’s personal space. We create an atmosphere where it is safe to ask, make mistakes and learn.
We express ourselves clearly, understandably and in a friendly way. We greet each other. We listen to each other. We give space to everyone in conversation.
We offer and welcome feedback. We apologize.
We ensure that facilities and services are safe, accessible and easy to use.
We boldly intervene in defects and inappropriate behavior, discrimination and racism.
We create safer and bolder spaces together.
Compiling and using the principles for a safer and bolder space
Each operator holding events or other activities should have their own principles for a safer space. There is no general safe space guideline that would apply to every situation. Everyone can compile their own principles that suit their space or event. The principles can be further clarified and examined if defects are found.
Compiling principles for a safer and bolder space is not difficult. The main principle is that all people participating in the activity participate in listing them – including both customers and users of the space.
Good principles for a safer and bolder space
Everyone may list their principles for a safer and bolder space, but the following basics should be mentioned:
list of human traits mentioned in the Non-Discrimination Act and the Act on Equality between Women and Men, based on which people must not be treated inappropriately
the principles should prohibit inappropriate behavior and speech, such as discrimination and harassment
the principles should state that everyone’s right to self-determination must be respected
the principles should name a contact person who can be contacted if the principles are violated
It is good to include accessibility information in the principles.
Compile the principles together
First, read the city of Oulu’s general principles for a safer and bolder space. You may use them as a template when compiling principles for your needs.
For example, you may compile a draft of your principles for a safer and bolder space and organize a survey or discussion where everyone can comment on the proposal. Discuss together what should be considered to make sure that everyone feels good, safe and accepted in your spaces, activities or events.
How to use the principles
Once the principles are finished, spread awareness of them. Publish them on your website, print out posters into meeting spaces or present them as the first slide in your slide shows. Mention the principles in event invitations and remind people of them at the beginning of your events.
Everyone participating in the activity may remind others about the principles if violations at the activity or space arise. Intervening should be done considerately; the goal is not to humiliate the person who made a mistake.
Name a contact person for the principles who can be contacted if the principles are not followed or if someone wants to offer feedback. The contact person monitors and intervenes in situations where the principles are violated, meaning that someone’s social safety is disturbed.