Code of Conduct

The mission of International Chincoteague Pony Association and Register (ICPAR) is "preserving, protecting and promoting the Chincoteague Pony internationally”. In order to help the ICPAR succeed in this mission, a code of conduct has been outlined. Adherence to this Code helps to ensure a safe and positive environment for all involved in the ICPAR’s business affairs, programs, events, and social media presence.

Code of Conduct
It is the policy of ICPAR that its staff and participants uphold the highest level of ethical and professional behavior, and shall:
1.    Act in accordance with the ICPAR’s Bylaws and Rules & Regulations.
2.    Treat with respect and consideration all persons, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, maternity, marital or family status, disability, age or national origin. The ICPAR supports equal opportunity, prohibits discriminatory practices, and is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and fairness.
3.    Respect and protect privileged information to which they have access in the course of conducting official ICPAR duties.
4.    Exhibit professional and ethical behavior in any and all ICAPR related activities. An even higher standard of behavior is expected from those in leadership roles within the ICPAR.
5.    Refrain from hostile communication with ICPAR staff.
6.    Ensure any communication about ICPAR, including social media posts, comply with ICPAR's policies on confidentiality.
7.    Be aware that all ICPAR policies that regulate conduct apply to social media activity.
8.    Agree that ICPAR’s logo may not be used in print, online, or in any form unless having been given written consent.
9.    Understand that all ICPAR event attendees and hosts are expected to conduct themselves in a polite, professional and respectful manner.
10.  Support ICPAR in protecting all participants from bullying, harassment, intimidation, or any other kind of predatory behavior.
11.  Make the health and safety of ponies and participants in all ICPAR related activities or events a priority.
12. Any persons convicted of animal abuse is barred from registering with ICPAR or participating in any ICPAR activities.
13.  Make known when representing ICPAR in any capacity, one's personal opinions are not that of the organization.

Enforcement
Violations of the Code of Conduct may result in penalties of varying or accelerating degrees, depending on frequency or severity.  Serious violations and their consequences fall under the jurisdiction of the ICPAR Grievance Policy, Bylaws, and Rules.

Grievance Policy

Members wishing to submit a grievance must do so in a signed, dated, written correspondence. Grievances can be submitted to the ICPAR President.  The correspondence must clearly indicate that it is a Formal Grievance.  The recipient of the grievance must forward the grievance to the staff within three working days.

ICPAR will not entertain grievances arising from business dealings between participants. Participants should use contracts to protect themselves and can resort to the court system for redress when necessary.

Upon receipt of a proper grievance, the staff will consider whether it is within ICPAR’s providence to consider the matter and whether there is good cause to investigate the matter. If so, ICPAR will appoint an ad hoc committee to investigate the matter and report back to the Board as to whether any action should be taken. In that event, formal proceedings may be initiated. Once grievance has been adjudicated by the board, the board will submit its resolution of the grievance to the member in writing.

The ICPAR Board can also investigate matters and initiate proceedings on its own without there having been a formal grievance from a member. This would include, but is not limited to, making fraudulent representations to the Board and/or filing specious grievances.

Under the Bylaws, ICPAR’s recourse is the suspension of registration privileges and/or from participating in ICPAR activities. ICPAR has no authority to impose fines.

*Code of Conduct and Grievance Policy were last updated 9-30-21