DR: The ANVil Policies

All Dystopia Rising productions and their participants are subject to the Community Guidelines.

All local branches are individual, stand-alone companies and are obligated to follow all local and state laws. The below process is written as guidelines for managing issues that arise in local, individual communities. This is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of potential offenses and the local branch has the responsibility to manage corrective actions as appropriate for the offense. 

WHAT MAY WARRANT A SANCTION/CORRECTIVE ACTION

The following is a list of things that may be justifications for a corrective action. The context and severity should be taken into account with all of these on a case-by-case basis, but the below list is a general guideline for possible reasons for a corrective action. This is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of potential offenses and the local branch has the responsibility to manage corrective actions as appropriate for the offense.

• Not complying with federal or state law.

• Discrimination in the form of race, gender, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

• Sexual misconduct including harassment and assault.

• Threats that affect or are perceived to affect the safety, health, or well-being of another person at or pertaining to an event.

• Possession of a dangerous weapon, concealed or unconcealed, at an event including social gatherings run by the franchiser. This includes all guns, explosives, or other devices which in the manner used or intended are capable of causing death or bodily injury.

• Incompetence or negligence which leads to harm or harassment of another person or the community as a whole.

• Possession of narcotics, alcoholic beverages or other unlawful drugs including smoking while under the legal age. This also includes attending game events and social events in which alcohol is not allowed, while under these effects, even if taken at an off-site location.

• Dishonesty to a Guide about issues or while inquiring into a corrective action. This also includes misrepresenting yourself as operating in an official capacity.

• Theft of any kind including the out of character theft of personal and game property.

• Any Guide accepting anything of any perceived value for their influence or judgment.

• Using one’s position for personal gain including the use of confidential information received through one’s position to obtain any favor, financial gain or social status.

• Inappropriate handling or release of confidential or un-authorized documentation of IP material.

• Repeated or purposeful missing of NPC, Clean Up or other community activities without a clearly communicated and approved reason.

• Conviction of a felony.

• Inappropriate use of language towards any Guide which impedes operations or interferes with the ability to maintain their function.

• Failure to act safely or use safety equipment which can result in endangering self or others.

• Failure to abide by game rules or genre breaches that impact the quality of the game as a whole.

WHAT DOES NOT JUSTIFY A SANCTION/CORRECTIVE ACTION

While the actions listed above are grounds for giving a corrective action, there are certain things that do not meet these criteria. While not limited to the below list these are some examples of actions that while troubling may not be used as grounds of removal or correction. This is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of potential offenses and the local branch has the responsibility to manage corrective actions as appropriate for the offense.

• Personal Dispute, related to past grudges, ending friendships or the general dislike of an individual.

• Romantic Relationships, relating to the ending of a partnership and the feelings associated to this.

These above issues while not grounds for corrective action, may be grounds to request to not show up at events run by the local branch in question or not be a Guide or Freelancer. While we as a company don’t believe these are worthy of removal as a network, we also ask that all parties respect that these events are the workplace for the game runners, and they are required to attend. If a personal relationship makes it as such that both parties cannot be at the same location and maintain a professional relationship, then we ask that the worker’s desires are respected in order for them to complete their job to the best of their abilities.

Are there national Refusals of service?

The short answer is no. The organization that handles license agreements for branches, produces resources, provides the database, and organizes the owners for quarterly meetings does not dictate who the individual businesses can or will allow at their events. ROS from a “higher source” instead is focused on who they will, and will not, allow to have a continued branch license with.

Levels of Corrective Action

Below are the levels of corrective action that a player may receive. Please make sure that you are fully aware of what the consequences are of these corrective actions when speaking with your local branch.

WARNING

A Warning is a gentle reminder of how to act in regard to the community standards. It could be as simple as “Check your swings” or even “We don’t talk about that topic here.”

Everyone slips up and that is fine. Warnings should be taken as strong advice and actions adjusted accordingly.

These are issued by Guides at any point after the infraction.

VIOLATION

A Violation is much like a Warning but here it is clear that this was an improper action and not a misunderstanding. It could be a matter of intention, previously being informed and repeating the behavior, or how the severity of it affected the other party(s).

This is still a gentle reminder but should be accompanied with a full explanation of what happened, why it is an issue and asking for an assurance that it won’t happen again.

If a Guide is given a Violation then they cannot be a Guide for any event for the duration of that Violation, which is to be determined by the local branch they received the Violation from. This is due to Guides only being allowed to hold that position if they are in good standing in the network. This includes Guides given Violations at events where they are not a Guide.

These are issued by Guides at any point after the infraction.

SUSPENSION

A Suspension is a player not being allowed to attend DR events, be they games or social events, for a period of time that can be durations of 3 – 12 months based on the severity of the offense.

Suspensions are not taken lightly. This action should be used if the player has exhibited a pattern of behavior that Warnings and Violations have not changed. It could also be used to demonstrate the severity of the offense.

The hope is always that this player will take this time and removal from events and officially run community functions to rethink the behaviors and actions they have taken so they can return as a better community member.

Suspensions can only be issued by a local branch’s Conflict Resolution Lead at any point after the infraction.

Suspensions are issued at a local level for a single branch only. If you receive a suspension you are required to contact the local branch you wish to attend for the duration of the Suspension before attending, as it is in the purview of the local branch if they wish to not uphold the suspension.

INDEFINITE SUSPENSION

An Indefinite Suspension is much like a Suspension only it hinges on the player fulfilling some kind of condition before their return.

This might be an apology to the person they wronged, a conversation with the issuing branch demonstrating their understanding of the issue and a promise to not repeat it, the fulfillment of an agreed upon obligation or fulfilling a missed event payment.

This stipulation is not a punishment but a reasonable solution to a problem the player can work on.

Indefinite Suspensions can only be issued by a local branch’s Conflict Resolution Lead at any point after the infraction.

Suspensions are issued at a local level for a single branch only. If you receive a suspension you are required to contact the local branch you wish to attend for the duration of the Suspension before attending, as it is in the purview of the local branch if they wish to not uphold the suspension.

SUSPENSION PENDING INVESTIGATION

This is to be given to a player who has been accused of something that if true would make them worthy of a Suspension, Indefinite Suspension or Refusal of Service.

This is to give the local branch time to gather their facts, talk to all of the involved parties and make a decision while still removing a possible harmful or toxic player from an event in the meantime.

If it is seen that a player is withholding information in order to draw out the time the Suspended player is removed, they may be allowed back in play while still compiling evidence.

Indefinite Suspensions can only be issued by a local branch’s Conflict Resolution Lead at any point after the infraction.

Suspensions are issued at a local level for a single branch only. If you receive a suspension you are required to contact the local branch you wish to attend for the duration of the Suspension before attending, as it is in the purview of the local branch if they wish to not uphold the suspension.

REFUSAL OF SERVICE

Any business has the right to refuse service to any customer as long as it is not because of discrimination as defined by local, state and federal laws.

If a local branch decides to refuses service be aware that while this is just for the one branch, any other branch may also reserve this right.

If someone are refused service at any branch you are required to contact any other branch you intend to visit through email if, at least seven days before attending their event to allow them time to make their decision.

Refusal of Service can only be issued by a local branch’s Conflict Resolution Lead or owner at any point after the infraction.

Refusal of Service are issued at a local level for a single branch only. If you receive a Refusal of Service you are required to contact the local branch you wish to attend, as it is in the purview of the local branch if they wish to not uphold the Refusal of Service.

REMOVAL OF GUIDE OR FREELANCE POSITION

An action which is worthy of a violation or suspension also will result in that player being removed from the position of Guide. A violation will remove the guide for the duration of the violation. A suspension is a full removal of the Guide title, though a player may re-apply for the position. Approval or denial is in the purview of the local branch.

A Guide is trusted to hand out certain corrective actions and be positive members of the community who represent the game’s best intentions, and writers are trusted to know what a positive play space is and create it for the players. If a Guide is seen by the community to not be trusted or represent the ideals we hold as a community then their dismissal from this position might be necessary.

A freelancer, be it writer, crafter or other, must not be in bad standing with the network as a whole to do business. This means that someone should either have never attended an event (and therefore is not in good or bad standing) or is not currently under a corrective action.

This is given in conjunction with another corrective action.

Age Requirement
Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is an 18+ Branch of the Dystopia Rising Network. You must be 18 years of age to participate.

Smoking & Other Nicotine Use
Smoking and Electronic Smoking ("Vaping") are permitted at Dystopia Rising: The Anvil events, but only in specifically designated areas.
These areas may vary due to event site restrictions. If you are unsure of where the designated smoking area is on an event site, please reach out to staff for clarification.

Drugs & Alcohol
Alcohol is strictly prohibited at Dystopia Rising Events, as is any controlled substances that you do not have a prescription for.
While Cannabis-based products and other THC products are legal for recreational use in the state of Washington, they are still prohibited at Dystopia Rising: The Anvil events.

Weapons
Real firearms or other literal weapons of any kind are not permitted at any Dystopia Rising Network Events.

Abide by the Law
When at a Dystopia Rising LARP Network Event, much like in life, Illegal activity is Illegal. If members engage in illegal activity while at a Dystopia Rising LARP Network Event, those members will be turned over to the Local Authorities in addition to having Corrective Actions handled by Local Branch Runners or National Network Representatives.

Draw a line between the game world and the real world
Characters that are portrayed by Players or Staff Members are fictitious entities. Characters should never take priority over Real People. Character actions should be defined by a combination of what the Character would do AND the Concepts of Fair Play and Sportsmanlike Conduct. Sometimes Characters need to do, or say, things that they normally wouldn’t to ensure the Emotional, Mental, and Physical Safety of the Players. Players, however, should never participate in something they do not want to for the sake of a Character. When role-play and game interactions touch on Sensitive Issues, we always will fall on the side of Caution and Respect for those involved. This is the most basic way to show respect and consideration. Game is Game. Life is Life. If these simple lines are difficult to understand or see, then please take some time off to correct your own life. Game will be there when you get back.

Responsibility to Other Players
We must be courteous and respectful of others, both in and out of game. When we interact with other people, we must understand that certain topics and words are triggers for sensitive subjects. In the instance that a topic of sensitive nature is being discussed or is the focus of an in-character interaction, the people involved should make sure that the
one that is least comfortable with the scenario is at ease. A scene or interaction is never more important than the players involved. Be respectful to borders and limitations of other people.

Personal Responsibility
It is also the Responsibility of those who feel that their limits are being pushed to express their Discomfort. Be it During Game or During an Out of Character Event, if a Topic, Word, or Subject Matter causes distress to an Individual we ask that that Individual express this to those involved. At times, people are unaware of how their actions might be affecting others. As much as we want people to be aware of what they are doing, we also need others to point out when boundaries or limits are being approached. Additionally, what is offensive or upsetting to one person might not be to another. Unless they are made aware of the issue, they cannot change or stop it. This is not a means for individuals to remove their characters from the negative repercussions of their own actions (such as zombies chewing on you if you ran out into the woods alone). However, it is a means to ensure that Reasonable Limitations and Triggers are Respected.

Conduct

When attending a Dystopia Rising Event, attendants are expected to conduct themselves in a way that best represents the network and themselves. It is the responsibility of the Runners of each Individual Branch to uphold Conduct Standards within their Local Gaming Community. In the instance that a Local Runner has not addressed issues that have occurred, members may contact the Dystopia Rising LARP Network home office via the Dystopia Rising LARP Network home page. Any issues that have occurred at a Local Level must first be brought to the attention of the Local Runner. Our Membership Guidelines apply at any Event that is being Officially Hosted or Advertised as a Branch or Dystopia Rising LARP Network Event. We have no intent to give you direction in regard to how you live your personal life. While we would hope that you would live your life in an open, friendly way with a mind towards the Equality-Based Community Standards the Dystopia Rising LARP Network embodies, it is not our intent to direct you on how to live your day-to-day life. We want a membership base that treats one another well. We want a membership base that treats everyone equally. We want a membership base that treats everyone fairly. We want a membership base that, truthfully, encourages the growth of not only the Network but the Players within it. It is important to note that these Guidelines are in relation to Person-to-Person interaction and not Character-to-Character interaction. We all understand that by attending a Dystopia Rising Role-Play Event we accept a wide range of role-play and while out of character actions should always be conducted with utmost care and respect for each other, conflict between Characters is a part of the game and the world. Community Guidelines apply to all interactions and being “In Character” is never an excuse to go against the Network Expectations.

Every member is treated the same and with respect
All members will be treated equally, free from harassment, and not discriminated against. Membership, attendance, participation and treatment at any Dystopia Rising LARP Network Event will not be Restricted by Race, Color, Sex, National Origin, Physical or Mental Disability, Sexuality, Gender Identity, Religion or Experience Level in the Hobby. Everyone is to be treated with kindness and respect. Communications within the Dystopia Rising LARP Network-Provided mediums as well as Person Interactions at Dystopia Rising LARP Network events must occur with Courtesy and Respect for those involved. All members should operate on a baseline of “Assume Best Intent”. This not only includes interacting with one another in friendly and civil tones, but also that when we disagree with one another we do so as adults would, with courtesy and respect.
This also applies to Community Members who are Employees, Owners or Other “Staffed” Members. Aggressive, Antagonistic or Attacking Interactions are not acceptable in any format. We acknowledge that creating LARP Events is an often stressful and difficult job and expect those who do so to be granted the same courtesy we would give any other member of the Dystopia Rising World.

Reporting Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive community, both during and outside of our events. Participants are expected to uphold the community standards outlined in the Dystopia Rising Community Guidelines.

When to Report:
If you observe or experience behavior that violates community standards—whether at events or in interactions outside of the game—you are encouraged to report it. Examples include:
- Harassment, bullying, or discrimination
- Conduct that undermines the integrity or inclusivity of the community

How to Report:
Reports can be made in the following ways:
1. At the Event:
Speak directly to:
  - A Player Advocacy Guide
  - A Director
  - An Owner

2. Outside of an Event:
  - Email your report to owner@dystopiorisingtheanvil.com.
or
  - Complete the online form linked to this policy. The form allows for anonymous reporting, though anonymity may limit the actions we can take. It can be found here.

When submitting a report, please include (if not anonymous):
- Your name and contact information
- A description of the behavior or incident, including dates and relevant details
- Any supporting evidence (if applicable)

What Happens Next:
Reports will be reviewed confidentially by directors, and/or owners. We will assess the situation and take appropriate action in line with community guidelines.

Confidentiality:
We respect your privacy and will handle all reports with discretion. Anonymous reports will be reviewed carefully, but lack of contact information may limit our ability to follow up or fully address the issue.

Anti-Harassment Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants. Harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited at our events and within our community.

Definition of Harassment:
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
- Verbal, physical, or online abuse or intimidation
- Discriminatory remarks or actions based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other personal characteristics
- Unwanted attention or inappropriate physical contact
- Any behavior that creates an unsafe or hostile environment

Sexual Harassment/Assault:
The topic and realm of Sexual Assault and Harassment are specifically banned from all Dystopia Rising and affiliated events, both in and out of character. There is no instance in which a plot or module will touch on this topic, and any use of it is strictly forbidden within the Game Running Rules and Guidelines. Likewise, during any and all Player Interactions, either in character or out, at no time should Sexual Assault be used, mentioned, alluded to, suggested, paraphrased or highlighted. Violations of this rule will be dealt with harshly and the Offender likely removed from the event. Repeat Offenders will not be welcome at events, and notice may be sent to other Dystopia Rising Branches.

Consent:
Consent is two (or more) People deciding together to do the same thing, at the same time, in the same way with each other- whether it’s Physical, Verbal, or Sexual. It is the presence of a “yes”, not the absence of a “no.” For the duration of an event, consent is defined as a clearly asked question followed by an enthusiastic “yes.”

How to Report Harassment:
Participants may report harassment using any of the following options:

1. At the Event:
  - Speak directly to a Player Advocacy Guide, a Director, or an Owner.

2. After the Event:
  - Email your report to owner@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com.
  - Complete the online form linked to this policy. The form allows for anonymous reporting, though anonymity may limit the actions we can take. It can be found here.

When submitting a report, you may include (if not anonymous):
- Your name and contact information
- A description of the behavior or incident, including dates and relevant details
- Any supporting evidence (if applicable)

Response and Action:
All reports will be reviewed confidentially by Directors and/or Owners. Based on the severity and nature of the report, we may:
- Investigate the incident further
- Issue warnings, suspensions, or bans to those responsible
- Take other actions in accordance with our community guidelines

Confidentiality:
We handle all reports with discretion. Anonymous reports will be reviewed carefully, but lack of contact information may limit our ability to follow up or fully address the issue.

Commitment to Safety:
By participating in our events, you agree to uphold the community guidelines and this policy. Harassment has no place in our community, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Safety Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants during our events.

Our Commitment to Safety:
- Event organizers and directors are trained to ensure compliance with safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Participants must adhere to the community guidelines outlined on the Dystopia Rising website, as well as any event-specific rules communicated by staff.
- Our events involve immersive activities, including physical interactions, designed with safety as a priority.

Participant Responsibilities:
- All participants are required to act respectfully and responsibly toward others and follow staff instructions at all times.
- Any behavior that endangers others, violates community guidelines, or disrupts the event may result in removal without refund.
- This is considered a dry event, and illicit substances should not be consumed during the event. This is both a Dystopia Rising policy and often a Site policy.

Emergency Procedures:
- In case of an emergency, follow instructions from event organizers and proceed to designated safe areas as directed.
- Participants are encouraged to report unsafe conditions, injuries, or other concerns to staff immediately.

DRefund Policy

All purchases made through Dystopia Rising: The Anvil are final.

Due to the nature of our events, products, and services, we do not offer refunds under any circumstances, including but not limited to:
- Cancellation by the attendee or participant
- Failure to attend an event or utilize a service
- Changes to scheduling, content, or format of events

By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to this policy.

Exceptions:
In the rare case that Dystopia Rising: The Anvil must cancel an event or service entirely, we will communicate available options, which may include a credit for future events or services.

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us via contact@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com.

Photo and Media Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil reserves the right to capture photos, videos, and other media during our events for promotional, archival, and informational purposes.

Use of Media:
- By attending our events, you grant permission for your likeness to be photographed or recorded and used by Dystopiorizing the Anvil in publications, promotions, and online content.
- Media captured may include images, video, and audio, and may be used in various formats, including social media, websites, and print materials.

Opt-Out Option:
- If you do not wish to have your likeness included in event media, you must notify us in advance by emailing production@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com.
- Upon receiving your request, we will make reasonable efforts to exclude you from photographs or recordings during the event.

Limitations of Exclusion:
- Please note that while we will take steps to honor opt-out requests, it may not always be possible to fully exclude individuals from all media captured during public or group settings.

Questions or Concerns:
For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact us via email at production@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com.

Privacy Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to protecting the privacy of our participants and ensuring that any personal information collected is handled responsibly.

Information We Collect:
We may collect the following information for event logistics:
- Name
- Contact information (email address, phone number, etc.)
- Payment details (handled securely through our payment processor)

How We Use Your Information:
Your information is used solely for:
- Event registration and communication
- Processing payments for tickets, services, or merchandise
- Responding to inquiries or support requests

Data Sharing:
We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties. The only exception is when it is necessary to process payments or comply with legal obligations.

Data Security:
We take reasonable measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Payment details are processed securely through trusted third-party platforms and are not stored by Dystopiorizing the Anvil.

Your Rights:
If you wish to request access to, modify, or delete your personal information, please email us at owner@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com. We will make every effort to accommodate your request within a reasonable timeframe.

Contact Us:
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at owner@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com

Inclusivity Statement

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to creating a community where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued. We believe that diversity and inclusivity are essential to building a vibrant and supportive environment for all participants.

Our Commitment to Inclusivity:
We actively uphold and promote the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals and other underserved communities within our events and programs. Our mission is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, has access to safe and meaningful participation.

Fostering a Welcoming Community:
To maintain an inclusive environment, we:
- Encourage diversity in participation and representation
- Celebrate individuality and self-expression
- Stand against discrimination, harassment, and exclusion in all forms

Your Role in Inclusivity:
We invite all participants to join us in fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. By upholding the principles of inclusivity, we strengthen our community and ensure that everyone feels they belong.

Contact Us:
If you have suggestions, concerns, or questions about our inclusivity efforts, please contact us at contact@dystopiarisingtheanvil.com

Refusal of Service & Suspension Appeals Policy

Dystopia Rising: The Anvil is committed to fairness and professionalism in all interactions. Individuals who have been refused service may appeal the decision through the following process:

1. Submitting an Appeal
- To request an appeal, complete the Refusal of Service Appeal Form available here.
- The form will require your name, contact information, and acknowledgment of this policy.

2. Scheduling an Appeal Meeting
- Once your appeal has been received, our team will schedule a virtual meeting.
- Meetings are conducted online via Discord.

3. Appeal Meeting Format
- The entire appeals meeting will take up to one hour.
- The meeting will begin with the individual presenting their case, which may take up to twenty minutes.
- After the individual’s statement, the board will recess to deliberate and prepare any questions.
- The board will reconvene to ask clarifying questions, and the individual will be allowed to make a closing statement before the meeting concludes.

4. Confidentiality
- Please note that evidence related to your refusal of service, including reports or testimony, will not be disclosed during the appeal to protect the confidentiality and privacy of all involved.

5. Decision and Notification
- After the meeting, our team will deliberate and vote on the appeal.
- You will be notified of the final decision via email.

Additional Notes:
- Appeals will only be rescheduled due to technical issues, and rescheduling is limited to two instances.
- If you miss your scheduled meeting without prior notice or a valid reason, your appeal will be denied.
- A recording of the meeting may be conducted solely by members of the Board of Directors for internal use, not to be shared outside of the BoD.
- While a Refusal of Service (RoS) is the term used in this policy and in the Dystopia Rising: LIVE rulebook, Suspensions are a temporary form of RoS and are also appealable as well via this format.
- We reserve the right to deny a request for an appeal for any reason, primarily dependent on the severity of the situation.

Finality of Decision:
Decisions made following this process are final and cannot be further contested.