Nondiscrimination Policy

Whatcom Wav is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals, including but not limited to our staff, board members, volunteers, artists, participants, and members of the public. We believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity and are dedicated to ensuring equal opportunity in all aspects of our operations and activities.

Whatcom Wav prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion (creed), national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This policy applies to all aspects of Whatcom Wav’s operations, including but not limited to:

• Hiring and employment practices
• Volunteer recruitment and engagement
• Selection of artists and performers
• Participation in our programs and events
• Provision of services
• Interactions with the public
• Board governance
• All other activities and operations of the organization

Whatcom Wav is committed to:

• Providing equal opportunities and fair treatment to all individuals.
• Creating and maintaining an environment free from discrimination and harassment.
• Actively promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work.
• Taking appropriate action to prevent and address any instances of discrimination or harassment.
• Providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

Any individual who believes they have experienced or witnessed discrimination or harassment in violation of this policy is encouraged to report it promptly. Reports can be made to any board member of Whatcom Wav. All reports will be taken seriously and will be handled with sensitivity and in a timely and appropriate manner, consistent with applicable law and the organization’s internal procedures. Whatcom Wav prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports discrimination or harassment in good faith.

All individuals associated with Whatcom Wav are responsible for upholding this Nondiscrimination Policy and contributing to a respectful and inclusive environment. This includes:

• Treating all individuals with courtesy and respect.
• Avoiding discriminatory or harassing behavior.
• Intervening when witnessing discriminatory or harassing behavior, if safe to do so.
• Cooperating fully with any investigation of reported discrimination or harassment.

Any individual found to have engaged in discrimination or harassment in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of their relationship with Whatcom Wav (e.g., employment, volunteer status, artistic engagement, board membership).

This Nondiscrimination Policy will be reviewed periodically and may be updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws.