SPEAKUP!
@ISKCON of DC
ISKCON of DC is part of a worldwide movement, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, managed by a Governing Body Commission (GBC). As members of this organization, we stand for the care and protection of all.
Everyone must do their part if we are to maintain a high standard of community care and support. If you have a concern you are encouraged to Speak Up! You do not need to be certain of all the facts. If you see or hear something that concerns you, a sense that something is not right, or if you have a question, you have several options:
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Discuss with the Community President
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Speak to any member of the Board, Temple Management, or a trusted community member
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Or contact us anytime through Speak Up!
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When you ask questions or report problems, you are helping to ensure ISKCON of DC achieves and sustains a safe and welcoming community. You are helping build the foundation of our future success in being a place where the philosophy of bhakti is not just taught, but lived.
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Confidentiality
Any information provided through Speak Up! or through any other reporting channel will be treated confidentially. In some instances, if an investigation is needed, information may be shared on a need-to-know basis. ISKCON of DC may be required by law to report certain types of activities.
Retaliation is Prohibited
ISKCON of DC will not tolerate retaliation against anyone who reports a problem in good faith, nor will we tolerate retaliation against anyone who participates in an investigation. If you believe you have been retaliated against or have witnessed retaliation please share that with the appropriate authority. Making a report in “good faith” means that you provide all the information that you have and you report honestly, regardless of whether the investigation of your report uncovers any actual misconduct.
How to use SpeakUp!
As described above, Speak Up! is one of your options when you need to ask questions and report concerns:
Speak Up! (speakup@iskconofdc.org) is a confidential mailbox which offers a safe place to ask questions, seek guidance, and report concerns. When you contact Speak Up! you will be listened to and guided to further action which may include any of the following resources:
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Child Protection Team - Vraja Radha devi dasi
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ISKCON Resolve - Vraja Vihari das - Conflict Resolution Specialist
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Karuna Care - Rambhoru Brinkmann, M.Div., MS
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Policies & Trainings
Below you will find links to the North American GBC policies and guidelines, as well as ISKCON of DC's online trainings around Child Protection, Domestic Violence, Internet Safety, and Pastoral Abuse. You will also find a link to ISKCON of DC’s emergency response document and the temples Child Protection 2020 Review and Policies.
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GBC Policies
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Accountability and Discipline
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When a violation of our ethical standards, policies or the law occurs, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. Certain actions may also result in legal proceedings, penalties or criminal prosecution.
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