Brothers To Brothers Code of Conduct – Brothers To Brothers Forum

Brothers to Brothers Code of Conduct

Last Updated: 10/19/2025

I. Introduction

Brothers to Brothers (BTB) is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space for Black men in Whatcom County. This Code of Conduct serves as a guiding document for how we engage with one another, both within our meetings and in the larger community.

All members are expected to uphold the values of respect, unity, confidentiality, and collective empowerment in their participation with BTB.

This document outlines:
✅ Expectations for conduct within BTB meetings and sacred spaces
✅ Conflict resolution processes
✅ Membership guidelines and visitor policies
✅ Standards for communication and media use
✅ Procedures for addressing violations

All members are required to read, understand, and agree to this Code of Conduct before formally joining BTB.

II. Core Values & Principles

Respect Above All – Every member must treat others with dignity and respect at all times. Disrespect, intimidation, or personal attacks will not be tolerated.

Confidentiality & Trust – What is shared in BTB spaces stays within BTB. Members must not disclose private discussions outside the group without consent.

Unity Over Division – We do not allow religious, political, or personal divisions to weaken our mission. We are Black men first, and that bond must remain unbreakable.

Accountability & Growth – If conflicts arise, we commit to resolving them with integrity and maturity rather than allowing negativity to fester.

Commitment to the Community – Members are expected to represent BTB with integrity in public spaces and to engage in ways that strengthen the collective.

III. Sacred Spaces and Membership Guidelines

1. Sacred Spaces

Certain BTB spaces are considered sacred, meaning they are reserved exclusively for active members and must be treated with the same respect, confidentiality, and integrity as formal meetings.
These sacred spaces include:

The BTB WhatsApp group
All in-person and virtual meetings
Private events designated as members-only
The BTB members-only internet site

Members must uphold all aspects of this Code of Conduct within these spaces.
No sharing of screenshots, recordings, or conversations from these spaces is permitted without prior approval from the Board.

2. Meetings and Participation

BTB meetings are sacred spaces for discussion, healing, and strategy.

Meetings are for Black men only.
Visitors may attend by invitation only and must be approved by the Board or designated leadership prior to attendance.
Every member has the right to share, speak, and air grievances in a respectful and constructive manner.
Members must be present in mind and spirit; engaging in side conversations, phone use, or other distractions during meetings is discouraged.
If a member has an issue with another member, it must be addressed internally through proper channels (see Section IV: Conflict Resolution).

Meetings will follow an agreed-upon structure, including:

Clear agenda and goals
Designated speaking time for all members
Accountability check-ins for commitments and tasks

3. Membership Process

Anyone who identifies as a Black man is welcome to apply for membership.
Membership is required to participate fully in BTB activities and sacred spaces.

All members must:

Formally sign up and agree to this Code of Conduct
Complete the membership approval process as outlined by BTB leadership
Remain in good standing by adhering to all behavioral expectations

All members are equal. Titles and roles exist for structure, but no one is above another in terms of worth or voice.

IV. Media, Photos, and Recordings

To maintain privacy, safety, and trust, no photos, videos, or recordings may be taken or shared during any BTB meeting, event, or sacred space without prior board approval.

Members wishing to document an event must submit a request to the Board in advance.
The Board reserves the right to designate an approved photographer or videographer for official events.
Unauthorized sharing or posting of images, videos, or recordings from BTB spaces may result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from membership.

V. Conflict Resolution Process

Disagreements will happen. How we handle them determines our strength as a community. BTB follows a structured approach to resolving conflicts:

Direct Conversation: Members must first attempt to resolve conflicts one-on-one in a private and respectful manner.
Mediation: If unresolved, a neutral BTB leader will mediate a discussion to find a resolution.
Conflict Resolution Circle: If further action is needed, a small group of respected members will convene a conflict resolution circle to address the issue fairly.
Accountability Agreement: If necessary, a member may be asked to commit to specific actions to restore trust and maintain group harmony.
Final Action: Continued violations of the Code of Conduct may result in suspension or removal from BTB.

VI. Political Engagement & Community Presence

BTB is committed to strategic and organized advocacy for Black men and marginalized communities.
To ensure our impact is strong and unified, we have the following political engagement policies:

✅ Approach political meetings with intention and a clear purpose.
✅ Speak as a collective—personal opinions must not be misrepresented as BTB’s stance.
✅ Respect different perspectives—prioritize Black unity over division.
✅ Avoid reckless, disruptive, or harmful behavior that could damage BTB’s reputation.
✅ Political endorsements of individuals may only occur through a formal group vote.

VII. Enforcement & Consequences for Violations

This Code of Conduct is not just words—it is a commitment to each other and to the legacy we are building.

If a member consistently violates the Code of Conduct, the following steps will be taken:

Verbal Reminder – A private conversation will be held to address the issue.
Written Notice & Mediation – Continued behavior will result in a formal notice and mediation process.
Final Warning & Suspension – A last opportunity will be given to correct behavior.
Removal from BTB – If all steps fail, the member will be removed from the organization.

BTB believes in growth and second chances but will not tolerate actions that harm the collective.

VIII. Agreement & Acknowledgment

By clicking the accept button, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to uphold the Brothers to Brothers Code of Conduct.