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Safe Space Network Participation Agreement

1. Purpose of the Network

The Safe Space Network is a visual commitment by local businesses, churches, and organizations to provide an environment where members of the LGBTQIA+ community can shop, dine, worship, or seek services without fear of discrimination, harassment, or judgment.

2. On-Site Verification & Launch

To ensure the authenticity of the network and to celebrate your participation:

• A member of the Carrollton Rainbow Board of Directors will visit your physical location to officially apply the Safe Space sticker to your storefront or entryway.

• During this visit, a photo will be taken of the business representative(s) with the sticker to be used for social media announcements and your featured blurb on www.carrolltonrainbow.com.

• If there is no physical location, a board member will be happy to meet with you to take your photo/video in a public space.

3. Standards of an Affirming Participant

By signing this agreement, the Participant commits to the following behavioral and environmental standards:

• Zero Tolerance for Discrimination: The Participant agrees to provide equal service and respect to all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

• Inclusive Environment: The Participant will make reasonable efforts to ensure staff or volunteers are trained to interact respectfully with LGBTQIA+ patrons (e.g., using correct pronouns/names).

• Active Safety: If a member of the LGBTQIA+ community is being harassed by another patron on the premises, the Participant agrees to intervene or de-escalate the situation to maintain a safe environment.

• Visible Allyship: The Safe Space sticker must remain clearly visible to the public to signal that the location is a vetted, welcoming space.

4. Website & Media Features

In exchange for this commitment, Carrollton Rainbow provides:

• A dedicated blurb on the Safe Space Network directory including business details and links.

• The option to film a short "Why We Are a Safe Space" video for the website.

• Ongoing promotion via Carrollton Rainbow’s social media channels.

5. Accountability & Removal Policy

Carrollton Rainbow reserves the right to protect the safety of the community. If a Participant is found to be in violation of the "Affirming Standards" (e.g., reports of discriminatory behavior, public anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric, or failure to maintain a safe environment):

• The Participant will be immediately removed from the Carrollton Rainbow website and directory.

• The Safe Space sticker must be surrendered and removed from the storefront.

• Carrollton Rainbow reserves the right to issue a public statement regarding the change in the Participant's status if necessary for community safety.