Code of Conduct & Anti-Harassment Policy
The Black Swamp Horror & Oddities
1. Our Mission
The Black Swamp Horror & Oddities is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of event participants in any form.
2. Who This Applies To
This policy applies to everyone at the event, without exception:
- Vendors, Exhibitors, and Artists
- Attendees and Ticket Holders
- Volunteers and Staff
- Special Guests and Panelists
- Press and Media
3. Nudity & Mature Content Policy
Art & Merchandise: We permit the display and sale of nude art, horror themes, and adult content by our vendors. This content is a protected part of our show’s nature.
Attendees & Cosplay: Public nudity is prohibited. All attendees and cosplayers must maintain coverage of “swimsuit areas” at all times. “No Costume is No Costume.”
Consent: The presence of adult themes in art is not an invitation for sexual comments or behavior. “Cosplay is Not Consent” applies to everyone. You must ask permission before photographing or touching any attendee, artist, or model.
4. What Constitutes Harassment
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
- Harassment of Vendors: Touching display items without permission, making artists uncomfortable regarding their work, or blocking sales tables.
- Verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination (related to gender, race, disability, etc.).
- Unwelcome touching, hugging, or glomping.
- Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following.
- Harassing photography or recording.
- Sustained disruption of panels or other events.
- Inappropriate physical contact.
- Unwelcome sexual attention.
- Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior.
5. Consequences
Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.
If a participant (including Vendors or Staff) engages in harassing behavior, the Black Swamp Horror & Oddities organizers retain the right to take any actions to keep the event a welcoming environment. Consequences may include:
- Verbal warning.
- Confiscation of badge/wristband.
- Immediate expulsion from the event with NO refund. (For vendors, this includes forfeiture of booth fees).
- Banning from all future Black Swamp Horror events.
- Involvement of local law enforcement.
6. Reporting Procedures
If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of the event staff immediately.
How to Identify Staff:
Staff can be identified by Bright Purple T-Shirts with the word STAFF on the back.
Reporting During the Event:
- In Person: Go to the Info Booth/Registration Desk located at the front of the hall.
- Phone/Text: Call or text our Safety Hotline at (419) 855-2771. This line is monitored during all show hours.
- Email: info@blackswamphorror.com
Reporting Staff Members:
If the person harassing you is a staff member, volunteer, or security guard, they are not above the rules. You may report them directly to Rachael Castilleja at rachael@blackswamphorror.com. You will not be asked to confront anyone, and we will respect your privacy.
7. Emergency Contact Information
- Event Safety Hotline: (419) 855-2771
- Venue Security: (419) 855-2771
- Toledo Police Department (Non-Emergency): 419-245-3340
- Emergency: 911
- Lucas County Sheriff: 419-213-4908
- YWCA of Northwest Ohio (Sexual Assault Services): 866-557-7273
- Local Taxi (Black & White Transportation): 419-536-8294