In recent years, ICSA has grown to include a diverse range of members with different backgrounds and perspectives. To ensure all participants can engage in a safe and respectful environment, we set clear expectations for behavior at our events and within our community. These Guidelines signal our commitment to inclusivity, safety, and proactive support for all.
ICSA’s Mission
The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) provides information, education, advocacy, and support to those adversely affected by or interested in cultic and other high-control groups and relationships. Grounded in a foundation of ethical principles, research-based knowledge, and a commitment to education, we serve as an open, professional, nuanced, and egalitarian resource for professionals, survivors, families, researchers, and the public. We embrace diversity, dialogue, respect, freedom, and inclusivity in all our endeavors.
Annual Conferences as Spaces of Dialogue and Debate
Annual conferences serve as spaces for dialogue, where participants are encouraged to engage in meaningful discussions. Dialogue involves actively listening to and engaging with interlocutors in a climate of mutual respect and civility (Rose-Redwood et al., 2018). These gatherings provide opportunities for challenging yet constructive debate, allowing participants to refine their perspectives and benefit from potentially valuable critique.
In the context of annual conferences, an appropriate balance should be maintained between the following important considerations:
a) Recognition of Diversity and Inclusion
Speakers and participants should acknowledge and respect the diversity of attendees’ personal and cultural identities and social contexts. This includes remaining mindful of "otherness" and recognizing how certain voices are persistently excluded from dialogue due to power asymmetries linked to societal majority status (Koocher & Keith-Spiegel, 2016). Such asymmetries may be related to factors such as gender, race, religion, national origin, sexual expression, social class, socioeconomic status, or other circumstances that place individuals outside the cultural mainstream. Effective engagement requires sensitivity to the lived experiences of individuals, families, groups, and communities of reference (Clauss-Ehlers et al., 2019) present in the audience.
b) Managing Contentious Issues and Respectful Disagreement
Annual conferences are not "safe spaces" in the sense of shielding attendees from contentious topics or difficult discussions. Given the nature of academic and intellectual exchange, tensions may arise when strongly opposing viewpoints are presented. While disagreements—even intense ones—may occur, it is crucial to ensure that ideas can be debated and contested vigorously, while maintaining respect for individuals who hold differing views. Even when a majority of attendees share similar opinions, it is important to extend this respect to minority perspectives.
Attendees should be prepared to encounter expressions of viewpoints they may strongly disagree with, reject, or even find offensive. While participants are encouraged to protect themselves from potentially upsetting or controversial ideas, the conference organizers will provide support when necessary. In situations where individuals feel uncomfortable due to the presence of diverse viewpoints or the topics discussed in controversial sessions, ICSA will direct them to a member of the Assistance Team for guidance and support.
Fostering spaces for open inquiry, debate, and deliberation means resisting calls to ban speakers due to disagreement. Speech should not be suppressed unless it violates the law, attacks the dignity of a specific individual, constitutes a threat or incites violence, or breaches confidentiality or privacy. Encouraging open debate allows ideas to be aired and critically examined rather than left unchallenged.
ICSA Events Guidelines
ICSA promotes an inclusive and respectful environment at its conferences. All participants are expected to maintain professional conduct and contribute to a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
Conduct and Behavior
Harassment, intimidation, discrimination, inappropriate recording, disruptive conduct, or any form of physical or sexual assault will not be tolerated. ICSA and its local hosts are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Handling Incidents
Complaints can be submitted in person, via email (admin@icsahome.com), or anonymously online. They will be reviewed in good faith and resolved through:
Informal Resolution – The Executive Director gathers information and seeks an on-site resolution.
Formal Resolution – If further action is needed, an investigation may lead to sanctions, including removal from ICSA events.
By upholding these principles, ICSA ensures that annual conferences promote open dialogue, respect, and intellectual diversity while maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.