NARG / AOG Community Guidelines
Welcome to the Neurodivergent Advocacy and Resource Group and Autism On the Go (NARG / AOG)! Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for neurodivergent individuals and allies to connect, learn, and advocate. To ensure a positive and respectful environment, we ask all members to adhere to the following Community Guidelines when participating in meetings and activities.
1. Respect for All
- Treat all members with kindness, dignity, and respect.
- Acknowledge and honor different communication styles, processing speeds, and ways of expressing oneself.
- Avoid personal attacks, insults, or demeaning language.
- Listen actively and engage with others in good faith.
2. Inclusion & Diversity
- We welcome individuals of all neurotypes, backgrounds, and lived experiences.
- Discrimination, hate speech, or exclusion based on disability, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or other personal characteristics will not be tolerated.
- Make space for all voices—no one should dominate the conversation, and everyone should have an opportunity to participate.
3. Neurosensitivity & Accommodations
- Everyone processes information differently. Be patient and allow extra time for responses.
- Use multiple communication options when possible (e.g., text, voice, visuals) to make discussions accessible.
- If you need accommodations, you are encouraged to ask for them. If you are unsure what you need, leadership can help identify options.
- Respect sensory needs—no forced participation in activities that may be distressing.
- Recognize that stimming, scripting, and other natural expressions of neurodivergence are valid and welcome.
4. Confidentiality & Safety
- What is shared in meetings stays in meetings unless explicit consent is given to share information.
- Respect people's privacy—avoid discussing personal matters outside of designated safe spaces.
- If you feel unsafe or witness harmful behavior, please reach out to a facilitator or trusted leader.
5. Engagement & Participation
- Participation is always encouraged but never required—observe, listen, or contribute as you feel comfortable.
- If feedback or disagreement arises, engage with care and curiosity rather than hostility.
- If you need a break, step away at any time—your well-being comes first.
6. Growth & Learning Mindset
- Mistakes happen—what matters is how we learn from them. If someone points out a harmful comment or behavior, listen with an open mind and be willing to adjust.
- Encourage constructive conversations and support personal growth within the community.
- Assume good intent while also recognizing that impact matters.
7. Zero Tolerance for Harmful Behavior
- Harassment, bullying, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
- If someone repeatedly disregards these guidelines, they may be asked to step back from participation.
- Leadership reserves the right to intervene in cases of harm to protect the safety of all members.
By joining NARG / AOG meetings, you agree to uphold these guidelines.
Our goal is to create a space where neurodivergent individuals can thrive, feel valued, and have their voices heard. Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us build a supportive and inclusive space for all.