Sisterhood of Salem Mission & Philosophy

Our mission is to build an inclusive community where women inspire, support, and empower one another. We provide a safe space for authentic connections, shared stories, and mutual celebration, fostering personal and professional growth. By embracing the transformative power of women empowering women, we aim to amplify confidence, break barriers, and create a thriving network where every member can succeed.

(We affirm that the term "women" encompasses all individuals who identify as women, as well as those who are nonbinary. Our commitment to inclusivity means recognizing and respecting the diverse identities and experiences within our community. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted, regardless of their gender identity.)

 

Respect and Inclusivity

  • Treat all members and speakers with respect, kindness, and professionalism.

  • Embrace diversity and actively include individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

  • Avoid and report any form of discrimination, harassment, offensive behavior, or exclusionary practices.

Confidentiality

  • Respect the privacy of all members.

  • Do not share personal information, conversations, or content from events without explicit permission.

 

Constructive Communication

  • Engage in positive and constructive discussions.

  • Provide feedback that is helpful and supportive.

  • Refrain from making negative, dismissive, or harmful comments.

  • Be open to learning from others and receptive to feedback.

 

Accessibility and Neurodivergent Inclusion

  • Ensure that events, discussions, and activities are accessible to all members, including those with disabilities or neurodivergent traits.

  • Use clear communication, provide accommodations as needed, and respect sensory and processing needs.

Professionalism

  • Maintain a respectful and professional approach in all engagements, including events and online spaces.

  • Ensure your language is inclusive, thoughtful, and appropriate in all interactions.


Conflict Resolution

  • Address conflicts with respect and privacy, seeking to understand differing perspectives.

  • Approach disagreements constructively and collaboratively.

  • If necessary, involve group leaders for mediation to resolve issues fairly and equitably.

 

Events and Activities

  • Participate in events and activities with an open mind and offer constructive feedback for improvement.

  • Respect the time, effort, and contributions of event organizers, speakers, and fellow participants.

  • Ensure that speakers adhere to the guidelines, promoting inclusivity and avoiding offensive or polarizing content.

 

Promotion and Solicitation

  • Ensure any promotion of personal businesses or services is invited and relevant.

  • Share opportunities, resources, or collaborations that align with the group’s mission and benefit the community.

 

Reporting and Accountability

  • Report any violations of these guidelines to group leaders promptly and discreetly.

  • Understand that violations may result in removal from the group to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.

  • We reserve the right to prohibit or discontinue any activity or behavior that does not align with our mission of empowering women. To determine whether an activity or behavior aligns with our mission, consider the following:

Does it:

  1. Increase women’s ability to make their own decisions?

  2. Actively involve women in planning and decision-making processes?

  3. Provide access to education, skills development, or training opportunities?

  4. Improve women’s access to financial resources, employment, or entrepreneurial opportunities?

  5. Challenge and change harmful gender stereotypes and norms?

  6. Promote women’s physical and mental health?

  7. Increase awareness of women’s legal rights?

  8. Improve or advocate for legal rights for women?

  9. Build women’s self-esteem and confidence?

  10. Promote collective action and solidarity among women?

  11. Deliver benefits broadly to the community, enhancing the status of women overall?

If the majority of these questions are answered with a “NO,” the activity or behavior is likely inconsistent with our mission and may not be allowed.