Code of Conduct 2017

MGP-CC passed this Loomio proposal by Ian Schlakman March 9, 2017. It was not put before the membership at an assembly for approval, so it's status is in question. In May 2022, the Bylaws Review and Rules Committee recommended to the CC and membership that a new code of conduct be created.

Maryland Green Party Member Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct sets out guiding principles and specific practices that establish the framework for ethical conduct expected of all members of the Maryland Green Party (MGP). It is founded on a deep respect for the democratic process and recognition of the enduring need for respectful political discussion and debate in Maryland. 

This code requires a commitment by all MGP Members:

  • Global and National Green values: To live and respect the Global Green values of Ecological Wisdom, Social Justice, Participatory Democracy, Non-violence, Sustainability and Respect for Diversity.
  • Our MGP ethical values: As members of our party to abide by the values of honesty, respect, commitment, justice and responsibility.
  • Ethical Conduct: To reflect the highest ethical standards in conduct and to the best of one’s ability, maintain and strengthen the trust and confidence of the public in the integrity of the Maryland Green Party, and to the best of one’s ability, uphold the values, constitution, bylaws, policies, procedures and guidelines of the MGP.
  • Accountability: To be willing to be held accountable to the ethical and behavioral expectations within this code, and to understand that adherence to this code represents a condition of membership for MGP members and serious violations or non-compliance regarding this code could result in administrative or disciplinary measures up to and including termination of membership.   
  • Certification: To have read, understand and abide by the ethical and legal obligations of this Code of Conduct.

As a member of the Maryland Green Party, I agree to the following ethical behavioral obligations and expectations.

HONESTY

In relation to myself:

  • I shall act with integrity and professionalism and submit myself to the higher level of scrutiny appropriate as a member of the MGP.
  • I shall not commit acts such as slander or engage in behavior that could result in civil or criminal action against myself or the MGP.
  • I shall not intentionally misrepresent the stated purposes, values, or policies of the MGP.

RESPECT

In relation to each other:

  • I will respect the dignity of all persons.
  • I shall not intentionally cause harm to any person by engaging in physical, mental, or social abuse or harassment.
  • I shall not use insulting, harassing, or otherwise offensive language or behavior.
  • I shall not make false, frivolous or vexatious complaints regarding others.
  • I resolve to settle disagreements through reconciliation and restoration.
  • I will not condone wrongdoing. 
  • It is of the utmost importance to report breaches of this Code to the appropriate body within the MGP in a prompt and diligent manner. Complaints concerning a breach of this Code may be directed to the MGP Coordinating Council or the MGP Conflict Resolution Committee.

COMMITMENT

In relation to the party:

  • I shall conduct myself in a manner which will tend to maintain and strengthen the public’s trust and confidence in the integrity of the MGP and never undertake an action which would bring the MGP, or its members, into disrepute.
  • I will participate in the development of the party and governance of the state to the best of my ability and time available.
  • I shall cooperate with the structures, guidelines and procedures of the party and respond in a timely manner when contacted by officers of the MGP.
  • I agree to comply with any and all sanctions, decisions or outcomes imposed by the Conflict Resolution Committee and/or the MGP Coordinating Council.
  • I understand that any breach of this code may result in removal of membership and/or expulsion from the Maryland Green Party.

LAWFULNESS AND RESPONSIBILITY

In relation to our voters, fellow party members, registrants, donors, suppliers, contractors, other political parties and all fellow citizens in Maryland, nationally and internationally:

  • I will treat all stakeholders in a manner that is just, lawful and fair and avoids conflict of interest.
  • I will contribute to the sustainability of our political movement through respectful and professional communication.
  • I will respect that all people have fundamental rights and should be given adequate opportunity to express their political opinions.
  • I will respect that diverse ideas and opinions are essential to ensuring the growth of the MGP.
  • I shall conduct myself in a professional manner during political debate, respect legitimate democratic interests of all, and focus upon criticizing policies rather than persons.
  • I shall refrain from holding a membership in any other political party while I am a member of the MGP.
  • I shall work towards a new politics of solidarity, consensus, mutual aid and collaboration with others in areas where we share common values and beliefs.
  • If I am uncertain about any application of this code, I will seek advice and counsel from other MGP members, my MGP local, the Green Party of the United States, the MGP Conflict Resolution Committee and others as appropriate. 

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