Code of Ethics for Responsible Use of the Inspiring Leaders Profiles Database

As collaborators of the Women of Color in Engineering Collaborative, we are entrusted with a powerful resource through the Inspiring Leaders Profiles Database. This platform highlights the accomplishments, experiences, and expertise of women of color engineers and their collaborators. Recognizing the sensitivity and significance of this information, we commit to using it responsibly, ethically, and in ways that uphold the trust of the community.

1. Responsible Use of Profiles:
   We commit to accessing and using profiles solely for purposes that align with the Collaborative’s mission through community-building, mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and advancing women of color in engineering. The database will never be used for personal gain, marketing, solicitation, or other unauthorized purposes.
2. Confidentiality and No Unauthorized Sharing:
   Profile information is confidential. We will not share, distribute, or reproduce data from the database outside of approved Collaborative initiatives. Protecting the privacy of our profiles is paramount. We strictly prohibit the unauthorized sharing of the contact roster, screenshots, or any information without prior consent with external parties, ensuring that profiles remain confidential and within the organization's control.
3. Respecting Profiles’ Autonomy:
   Profiles may choose to opt out of the database at any time. Requests to be removed will be honored promptly and completely. All requests to opt-out will be promptly and diligently honored.
4. Immediate Cease of Contact Upon Request:
   If a profile indicates that they do not wish to be contacted, we commit to immediately stopping any communication. No contact will occur without explicit consent. All requests to discontinue contact will be honored without question.
5. Education on Privacy and Use:
   We actively inform profiles about how their information is used, the protections in place, and their rights regarding their profiles. Transparency is essential to building trust within our community.
6. Reporting Misuse:
   Any suspected misuse or unauthorized access of the database should be reported immediately to wcec@swe.org. All reports will be investigated thoroughly, and appropriate action will be taken.

By adhering to this Code of Ethics, we honor the contributions of women of color engineers and their collaborators, foster a safe and respectful environment, and ensure that the Inspiring Leaders Profiles Database remains a trusted resource for the community.

Consequences for Violations:
Violations of this Code may result in remediation, up to and including revocation of access to the database and other Collaborative resources.