WGI strictly prohibits all conduct which could pose a threat to the safety of participants. This policy sets forth WGI’s expectation that all individuals associated with WGI-sanctioned events shall report violations of the Code of Conduct.
Who Is Covered By This Policy?
Everyone associated with any WGI-sanctioned event is covered by this policy, including without limitation;
- Participant: A person over 18 performing with a group.
- Minor Participant: A person under 18 performing with a group.
- Group: The entire organization or an individual participating group.
- Staff: A person engaged by a group in an instructional or administrative role.
- Volunteer: A person who freely gives their time to WGI or a group and provides support in any capacity.
- Contractor: A person who provides occasional services for a fee.
- Circuit Partner: A regional partner organization that hosts marching arts events, using shared resources licensed by WGI and has its own governing body and financial management.
What is Expected Under This policy?
Anyone who receives information of any kind (oral or written, “informal” or “formal”) suggesting that misconduct related to participant safety has occurred that is connected in any way to individuals or activities associated with any WGI-sanctioned event or activity must report the matter immediately to WGI using the reporting form which can be found below and the management of all Participating Groups or Circuit Partners with which the affected individual(s) are associated. A report to an appropriate law enforcement agency may also be appropriate and is always available, in the discretion of the person who receives information regarding potential misconduct. If any party learns of or suspects child abuse, including sexual misconduct, they must immediately report it to law enforcement, WGI, and comply with other applicable reporting requirements. Reporting to WGI alone is not sufficient.
WHAT ACTION WILL BE TAKEN?
Upon receiving a report of any such misconduct, WGI, the Participating Group, and/or the Circuit Partner shall conduct an inquiry, report the matter to the appropriate law enforcement authorities as may be necessary, and take appropriate and effective remedial action under the circumstances.
Anyone found responsible to have participated in misconduct that threatens a participant’s safety will receive an outcome as WGI finds appropriate, up to and including a permanent ban from association with any WGI-sanctioned event in any capacity. WGI will not retaliate against anyone for reporting suspected misconduct or for participating in an inquiry, and WGI will not tolerate retaliation by any person or entity associated with any WGI-sanctioned event.
HOW CAN REPORTS BE MADE?
A report can be made via WGI’s website using the online Participant Protection Reporting Form.
