Terms of Participation

WELCOME

By entering ASWALK Festival, you agree to uphold the dignity, consent, and ethical principles of the Appearance Republic. 

CORE PRINCIPLES (PUBLIC-FACING)

1. Lived Experience Leads
   Those living with visible differences guide narratives, decisions, and representation.
   
   

2. No Spectacle. No Pity.
   Exploitative storytelling, voyeurism, or “inspiration porn” is not permitted.
   
   

3. Visibility Is a Choice
   Consent governs all photography, filming, and storytelling — and may be withdrawn at any time.
   
   

4. Safeguarding Children
   Children are protected at all times. Any breach results in removal and possible reporting.
   
   

5. Language Matters
   Correctional or demeaning language is not permitted in community spaces.
   
   

6. Mutual Protection
   Every participant is responsible for upholding dignity across all Houses.
   
   

ACCOUNTABILITY

These terms are enforced by The Appearance Positive (TAP)
and guided by ethical standards developed with the Appearance Positive Institute (APi).

***Please Note:
Media, photographers, and content creators must obtain explicit consent before recording and must follow ASWALK’s ethical storytelling guidelines.
***Consent may be withdrawn at any time without explanation.
***Government representatives and institutional partners are welcome as Observers and Allies, not as agenda-setters. You are here to listen, learn, and engage within the Republic’s framework.

***This does not prohibit medical discussion in appropriate clinical or research contexts, but it prohibits framing appearances as defects or failures within community and cultural spaces. 
***Any violation of child safeguarding protocols will result in immediate removal from the event and may be reported to appropriate authorities.
***Breaches of this principle may result in mediation, removal from activities, or exclusion from the Festival at the discretion of the ASWALK safeguarding team. 
***