As we prepare for the AMS Annual Meeting in Austin, AMS stands with the people in Texas working toward recovery after Hurricane Harvey, and similarly supports all those who are recovering from this devastating year of extreme weather. AMS looks forward to being in Houston in 2022 for its 102nd Annual Meeting as another sign of our strong commitment to the people of the region as they continue to rebuild.
In light of recent and pending legislation in Texas affecting the LGBTQ community, AMS also reaffirms its commitment to creating an environment for these meetings that “embraces diversity through the inclusion of individuals across age, gender, race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, physical ability, marital status, sexual orientation, body shape or size, gender identity and expression, socioeconomic status, and other facets of social diversity” (see: https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/index.cfm/about-ams/diversity-and-inclusion-at-ams/). AMS will do all it can to ensure that the meetings in Texas are welcoming and safe for all attendees (see the Statement on Professional and Respectful Conduct at Meetings below).
Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber
Need to report unprofessional or disrespectful conduct? Email reportconcern@ametsoc.org or call 617-226-3965.
AMS is committed to safe and productive meetings for all attendees. Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated at any meeting or event associated with the meeting. All communication should be appropriate for a professional audience including people of many different backgrounds. Be inclusive and respectful. Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down other attendees. Remember that harassment and sexist, racist, transphobic, or exclusionary jokes are not appropriate for AMS meetings. Those who violate the standards of professional and respectful conduct may be asked to leave the meeting immediately and without refund, may not be considered for service on AMS boards and committees, and may be subject to additional legal action.
Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination includes offensive comments and actions related to age, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion; sexual images in public spaces; deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following; harassing photography or recording; sustained disruption of talks or other events; inappropriate physical contact; and unwelcome sexual attention.
This statement is meant to cover all meeting-associated events, including those sponsored by organizations other than AMS but held in relation to AMS events. This includes the scientific program, short courses, and exhibitions, as well as receptions, town hall meetings, and other informal or formal gatherings associated with AMS. Similarly, participants shall adhere to this code of conduct in online spaces related to the meeting and meeting-associated events, including Facebook, Twitter, and other online venues.
If you believe you have witnessed or have been subjected to behavior that violates professional and respectful behavior, please contact a senior member of the AMS staff. You may do this by talking with any AMS staff person (who are identified with a staff badge) or by sending an e-mail to reportconcern@ametsoc.org or leaving a message at 617-226-3965 with your contact information. You will be contacted by a senior staff member in a timely manner. (If you are not contacted within 12 hours of sending an e-mail or leaving a voicemail, please talk to an AMS staff member at the meeting to ensure that the message is received.) If you witness or experience behavior that constitutes an immediate and serious threat, please call 911 or the local police first.
The AMS takes any breach of professional conduct at an AMS meeting or related function very seriously. You are encouraged to report any unprofessional conduct in the knowledge that AMS staff members will do their best to maintain the confidentiality of all parties to the extent possible while taking appropriate actions. In situations for which additional action is warranted, the AMS will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities.