[MR] Society notice

[Christy Dollymore]

Greetings,

I applaud the decision of the Society to run background checks.  While not a
way to determine IF people will offend...  it WILL be a deterrent,
especially if they HAVE offended.  I will be happy to donate to a fund to
pay for these checks. This subject segways me into something that is just as
horrid. Sexual Harassment. 

As far as adults being sexually harassed by SCA people at SCA sponsored
events,  REPORT REPORT REPORT!  Our Kingdom has a grievance policy, use it.
Report to your local law enforcement officials as well. Verbal sexual banter
that makes you uncomfortable is SEXUAL HARASSMENT and a reportable offense.
Don't let hats or titles keep you from reporting bad behavior.    

When I was new, there were folks that thought it OK to constantly talk about
their sexual escapades in the very public arena of baronial activities, with
CHILDREN PRESENT.  Sometimes their sexual banter was directed at me.  I was
totally embarassed and as most, did not report the offense.  

As Baroness, I had several horrible scenarios reported to me where newcomers
were sexually harassed , they were mortified and NEVER CAME BACK. The sexual
nature of the conversation going on, much of it directed at the newcomer,
was hideous, again with children present. I could not officially report it
to law enforcement because I wasn't there.  I did report it to SCA
"officers".  I tried... I made calls.. There was nothing else I could do.

The kingdom paying 6-700 dollars to attempt to screen potential youth
supervisors is far less than the money the SCA might pay in legal expenses
if a predator strikes.

In Service,
Baroness Elizabeth Harlyn
Kingdom of Atlantia
House Blackspear