- Respect—Give undivided attention to the person who has the floor (permission to speak).
- Confidentiality—What we share in this group will remain in this group.
- Openness—We will be as open and honest as possible without disclosing others' (family, neighbors, or friends) personal or private issues. It is okay to discuss situations, but we won't use names or other ID. For example, we won't say, "My older brother …" Instead we will say, "I know someone who …"
- Right to pass—It is always okay to pass (meaning "I'd rather not" or "I don't want to answer").
- Nonjudgmental approach—We can disagree with another person's point of view without putting that person down.
- Taking care to claim our opinions—We will speak our opinions using the first person and avoid using 'you'. For example, " I think that kindness is important." Not, " You are just mean."
- Sensitivity to diversity—We will remember that people in the group may differ in cultural background, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity or gender expression and will be careful about making insensitive or careless remarks.
- Anonymity—It is okay to ask any question by using the suggestion box.
- Acceptance—It is okay to feel uncomfortable; adults feel uncomfortable, too, when they talk about sensitive and personal topics, such as sexuality.
- Have a good time—It is okay to have a good time. Creating a safe space is about coming together as a community, being mutually supportive, and enjoying each other's qualities.
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