I want to confirm that the REC Foundation has no intention to ever search the internet, including social media or forums, for any incriminating information.
If information is provided to us as part of a complaint and subsequent investigation, we may consider this information as supporting evidence. I fully understand that we must carefully review the information to understand the context of the information. Again, we would use this as supporting evidence. I feel this is similar to reviewing emails and pictures that are provided to us as part of an investigation.
I am not inclined to modify G1 to include a statement that internet statements can be used to determine disciplinary action. I think this leads to a slippery slope of having to define everything that can and can not be used. However, I am open to modifying the Code of Conduct to clarify that we do not tolerate the harassment / bullying / attacking of anyone associated with an RECF event.
Again, the RECF will not police the internet looking to punish teams. I donât want to in any way prevent people from making jokes, goofing around and letting off steam on internet forums. I am ok if people criticize the RECF â it has become part of my life and I have much thicker skin because of it.
But I do think attacking and deliberately targeting Event Partners, Volunteers and my staff crosses the line, especially when the acquisitions are unfounded. No one tolerates bullying any more, including social media bullying. Schools and businesses do discipline students and employees for this behavior. And I think we have the right to hold teams associated with the RECF accountable for their words and actions when the subject is related to the RECF and it is supplied to us as part of an investigation.
I hope this statement clarifies the REC Foundation position.
Thank you for the comments about social media. They are not âjustâŚâ. As a society I worry about allowance for the Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. A code of conduct that doesnât apply to social media isnât worth anything.