Code of Conduct

For Downtown Comics space, events, and online community

Downtown Comics is committed to maintaining a space that is safer, welcoming, and affirming for everyone—especially those most often excluded from cultural and retail spaces. This Code of Conduct applies to all customers, event attendees, staff, volunteers, vendors, and guests.

Our Expectations

Respect people and their boundaries.
This includes respecting names, pronouns, identities, lived experiences, and personal space. Harassment, intimidation, or unwanted attention of any kind is not acceptable.

No hate, harassment, or discrimination.
We do not tolerate racism, colonialism, sexism, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, biphobia, ableism, fatphobia, ageism, religious discrimination, or harassment based on class, immigration status, or incarceration history.

Zero tolerance for violence or threats of violence.
This includes physical violence, sexual harassment or assault, threats, stalking, or aggressive behavior.

Engage in good faith.
Disagreement is allowed; harm is not. We expect conversations—especially around political or social issues—to be approached with care, accountability, and a willingness to listen. Derailing, tone policing, or deliberately antagonizing others is not acceptable.

Respect the space and the people who work in it.
Staff are here to support the community and keep the space safe. Abusive, dismissive, or exploitative behavior toward staff will not be tolerated.

What Is Not Allowed

  • Hate speech or slurs

  • Harassment or bullying (verbal, physical, or online)

  • Sexual harassment or unwanted advances

  • Deliberate misgendering or deadnaming

  • Disruptive behavior that interferes with others’ ability to participate

  • Bringing weapons into the space 

Enforcement & Accountability

Downtown Comics reserves the right to take action when this Code of Conduct is violated. This may include:

  • A warning

  • Being asked to leave the space or event

  • Removal from current or future events

  • Permanent banning from the store 

We prioritize the safety and well-being of those harmed over the comfort of those causing harm.

Reporting Concerns

If you experience or witness behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, please speak to a staff member or contact us directly at info@downtowncomics.ca. Reports will be taken seriously and handled with care and discretion.

Our Commitment

We know that no space is perfect. We commit to listening, learning, and taking responsibility when harm occurs. This Code of Conduct is a living document and will continue to evolve alongside the community it serves.

Downtown Comics exists in solidarity with marginalized communities. This is a space for imagination, resistance, and care—and we expect everyone who enters it to help uphold that vision.