OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
The act of thousands of queer people coming together at WHOLE is a revolutionary act that creates the potential for a transcendent experience. But to achieve this, we need your help.
GIVE WAY
Prioritize the needs of marginalized people. That includes making room for FLINTA* folks at the front of the dancefloor. Create a space of care and kindness for everyone.
DEESCALATE
Conflict tends to not bubble over when we commit to seeing one another through mutual respect. Everyone, and we mean everyone, is welcome here, regardless of background & nationality. No -phobia or -isms: transphobia, anti-Blackness, antisemitism & islamophobia will not be tolerated. Derogatory or aggressive behavior is never tolerated and is grounds for removal.
As in previous years, we ask that no national flags be displayed. Political messages and solidarity with oppressed groups can be expressed without national flags. Let’s celebrate our shared humanity together.
ASK, DON’T ASSUME
Respect everyone’s identity and background, including pronouns and names. Do not assume people’s gender identity, sexual preference, cultural background, religion, or health status, etc. Sensitive topics, like conversations surrounding violence, nudity or sex, might be easy for some but triggering for others. So, please be gentle and ask for consent – always!
CONSENT IS KEY
Sharing pleasure means sharing power. Communicate openly, respect boundaries, and prioritize mutual enjoyment. This can involve obtaining permission, but also finding out “how they like it”. Stay curious about the pleasure of your queer others, and respect pleasures other than yours. Desire can be playful, wild, quiet, or loud – but never assumed. Ask before touching, stay responsive, and remember: consent must be mutual, clear, and revocable at any time. Please report any misconduct to the Awareness Team.
PLURALITY OF PLEASURES
WHOLE Festival thrives on the celebration of difference with an eye toward transgressing the norm. Engaging each other with curiosity, care, and consideration makes this transgression possible and pleasurable.
TALK TO STRANGERS
It’s a rave – connect with people around you. Try not to judge others based on first impressions or identity labels. Be open to new encounters and help create a space where many kinds of pleasure and connection can exist. If a difference of opinion comes up, try to talk about it with respect. And if something feels off or you need support, reach out to our Awareness Team or someone nearby.
SET YOUR INTENTION
Festivals can become sensorially and emotionally overwhelming experiences. Before you blast off on the journey, we invite you to set an intention: what are your wishes, needs, and boundaries for the weekend? We advocate for a dose of mindfulness with our indulgence.
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Look out for the 💧 on the Festival Map!
Awareness staff will be recognizable by their purple vests. Look out for the [awareness icon] on the Festival Map!
USE THE SOS FEATURE ON OUR APP TO REACH US IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
[SOS button graphic from the app]