In order to make our meetings a safe place for everyone to explore the topics we present, we have some requirements concerning mutual respect while you're at attending the ritual.
 
One term we use here is "at choice." That means that you can choose to participate or "opt out" of whatever we're doing at any time. You can simply decline to participate or walk out of the room, to take a break, if you wish. By the same token, please feel free to speak or not speak during the sharing times. It is important to us that you honor your own personal needs.
 
And along with that comes a respect for the boundaries of the other people. That means a basic level of respect for each other and asking permission before making any physical contact, no matter how benign it may seem.
 
And it means that if someone asks you for something or to do something that you would rather not give or do, then we encourage you to decline, even if you only feel unsure. That is, unless your answer is a clear 'yes', then we're asking you to say 'no.'
 
If you are in a position where it's hard for you to hold your boundaries or it's hard to decide what to do or what you want in any given situation, or you're having a problem with the presentation or what you're being asked to do by the presenters, or especially if someone else is not respecting your wishes, or if you have any other need, then we, Deerheart and Ania, are available to help you, at any time, no matter what else is going on. If you want some assistance from us, then please raise your your hand to get the attention of one of us and that person will come to you. Please make sure your raised hand is seen by one of us.
 
Also, we ask that you agree to protect the privacy and confidentiality of everyone at the ritual and to share only your own personal experiences with anyone who is not at the ritual. No names or descriptions of anyone else, please.

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