NBDF Conference Behavior Guidelines

The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation’s events help people share information and support each other. We want to improve life and care for our community. Everyone who attends an NBDF event, including chapter events, should have full access to information and a safe place to share ideas. We do not allow threatening language or actions.  Everyone at our events should be able to: (1) easily access information and resources, and (2) feel safe sharing ideas without fear.

Everyone at NBDF events (attendees, staff, volunteers, vendors, and others) must be respectful and professional. We do not allow any form of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Whether it is in person or virtually, treat everyone with respect. Together, we create a welcoming environment where everyone belongs. We all help create a supportive space for conversation. These guidelines explain what behavior is expected at NBDF events so everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

NBDF welcomes and values many kinds of people and lived experiences. When you share your story, please use these tips to keep discussions helpful and respectful:

• Focus on the issue, not the person. It is normal for there to be differences of opinion. You may not agree with everything that is discussed. Listen to others and stay open to new ideas. If you disagree, challenge the idea kindly - not the person. Blame doesn't help. Talk honestly and work together to find answers. Share your thoughts firmly but kindly, not angrily. Share both positive and negative experiences with others.
• Problem-solve instead of placing blame.
• Use humor carefully. Do not make jokes about other people.
• Use words that help and encourage, not hurt.

NBDF’s Policy on No Harassment
NBDF does not allow harassment. This applies to everyone at NBDF events, including attendees, consumers, volunteers, exhibitors, industry professionals, guests, and NBDF employees. This policy applies at event spaces, online event platforms, and social activities hosted by NBDF.

• NBDF is committed to providing a work environment free of harassment.
• NBDF is committed to a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
• NBDF expects that all relationships among employees will be business-like and free of bias, prejudice, and harassment.
• Harassment is not allowed for any reason, including because of someone’s race, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
• Illegal harassment can include offensive, aggressive, antagonistic, and/or contentious behavior based on a protected legal status. Examples include slurs, name-calling, unwanted comments, threats, intimidation, ridicule, offensive images, and interfering with someone’s ability to take part in the event.
• Sexual harassment is not allowed. This includes unwanted sexual comments, unwanted touching, unwanted advances, requests for sexual favors, or any sexual behavior that makes someone uncomfortable. It can happen in person, online, in writing, or through images. Examples include unwanted flirting or touching, sexual jokes, comments about someone’s body or clothing, questions about someone’s sex life, and rumors meant to shame or degrade someone.

NBDF Drug & Alcohol Policy
For the safety and professionalism of our event, do not use alcohol, illegal drugs, or other impairing substances while attending or participating in NBDF events. Being under the influence at an NBDF event is not allowed. Do not provide alcohol to minors. If alcohol is served at an NBDF event, please drink responsibly and behave professionally.

Consequences of Unacceptable Behavior
Upon receiving a report of unacceptable behavior, NBDF’s priority will be the safety and security of participants. NBDF may take action, which can include a verbal warning, being denied access to the remainder of the event, or contacting appropriate authorities when needed. Retaliation for complaints of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated.

NBDF will keep reports as private as possible while still addressing the issue. NBDF will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation to determine the facts. NBDF will review its findings with the complainant at the conclusion of the investigation. No person who files a complaint in good faith or participates in the complaint resolution process will be subject to retaliation of any kind for that activity. NBDF will take such actions or reasonable steps as necessary to put an end to the harassment.

Thank you for helping create an inclusive, safe, and respectful event experience.

Conference and Travel Services Department

All changes will be made on this page as necessary. This document was last updated in January 2026.