Community Guidelines
Creating a respectful, inclusive environment where Arab culture thrives and all community members feel welcome.
These guidelines help us maintain a positive space for cultural exchange, learning, and celebration while fostering mutual respect and understanding.
By participating in our community, you agree to uphold these standards and contribute to our mission of building bridges between cultures.
Community Standards
Effective June 2025
Our Core Principles
The fundamental values that guide our community interactions and cultural exchange
Respect & Inclusivity
We welcome all individuals regardless of background, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
- Treat all members with dignity
- Embrace cultural diversity
- Practice active listening
- Value different perspectives
Cultural Preservation
We honor and celebrate Arab heritage while promoting authentic cultural exchange and education.
- Share knowledge respectfully
- Preserve cultural traditions
- Promote accurate representation
- Encourage cultural learning
Community Support
We support each other through collaboration, mentorship, and creating opportunities for growth and connection.
- Help fellow community members
- Share resources and opportunities
- Mentor newcomers
- Build lasting connections
Behavioral Guidelines
Expected Behavior
- Communicate respectfully and constructively
- Participate actively in cultural activities
- Respect diverse opinions and backgrounds
- Follow event guidelines and center policies
- Support community goals and initiatives
- Maintain confidentiality when appropriate
Prohibited Behavior
- Discrimination or harassment of any kind
- Hate speech or offensive language
- Cultural appropriation or misrepresentation
- Disrupting events or activities
- Sharing false or misleading information
- Violating privacy or confidentiality
Reporting & Support
If you experience or witness behavior that violates these guidelines, please report it to our leadership team.
Contact Information
Email: info@accstl.org
Phone: +1 (314) 717-1244
Address: St. Louis, Missouri
Our Commitment
All reports will be handled confidentially and fairly, with appropriate action taken to maintain our community standards.
Enforcement Actions
Violations may result in:
- Verbal or written warning
- Temporary suspension from activities
- Permanent removal from community
- Legal action when necessary
Digital Community Standards
Guidelines for our online presence, social media interactions, and virtual events
Social Media Conduct
- Post respectful, constructive content
- Avoid sharing unverified information
- Respect intellectual property rights
- Tag the center appropriately
- Engage positively with community posts
Virtual Event Etiquette
- Join events on time and prepared
- Mute when not speaking
- Use appropriate backgrounds
- Participate respectfully in chat
- Follow host instructions
Online Communication
- Use clear, respectful language
- Stay on topic in discussions
- Avoid spam or repetitive posting
- Respect privacy settings
- Report inappropriate content
Cultural Sensitivity & Awareness
Understanding and respecting the rich diversity within Arab culture and the broader community
Cultural Awareness
- Recognize the diversity within Arab culture
- Approach cultural discussions with humility
- Ask questions respectfully and thoughtfully
- Avoid generalizations or stereotypes
- Acknowledge different religious perspectives
- Respect cultural and religious practices
Language & Communication
- Use inclusive, respectful language
- Be patient with language barriers
- Offer help with translation when appropriate
- Appreciate multilingual conversations
- Avoid cultural or linguistic corrections unless asked
- Celebrate the beauty of Arabic language
Special Considerations
Religious Sensitivity
Respect prayer times, dietary restrictions, and religious observances. Be mindful of religious holidays and their significance.
Family and cultural preferences Considerations
Understand that family structures may vary. Respect personal boundaries and cultural preferences.
Political & Social Topics
Approach political discussions with care and respect. Focus on cultural exchange rather than political debate.
Cultural Events & Celebrations
- Participate enthusiastically and respectfully
- Ask about appropriate dress codes
- Follow event-specific guidelines
- Respect photography and sharing policies
- Appreciate the cultural significance of celebrations
Building Our Community Together
Living Document
These guidelines are living documents that evolve with our community. We encourage feedback and suggestions to help us create the most welcoming and inclusive environment possible.
Regular Review
We review these guidelines annually and update them based on community feedback, evolving needs, and best practices in community management.
"At the Arab Cultural Center, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates diversity, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. By providing a welcoming space for exploration, dialogue, and collaboration, we strive to be a catalyst for personal growth, social harmony among our communities, and the advancement of a more enlightened and interconnected society."
Questions about these guidelines? We're here to help clarify any concerns or provide additional information.
Last updated: June 2025 | Next review: June 2026