Confidentiality – What I say here is confidential. Outside this Men’s Group/I-Group, I will not share another man’s words or actions. I will only speak of my own experience and personal insights. 

No Recording – No one is to record this meeting in any way.  Please keep cell phones off at all times during the meeting.

Mandatory Reporting / Duty to Warn – Confidentiality does not apply in situations of abuse or neglect of children and the elderly and/or threat to harm self or others. If someone’s life is in immediate danger, action may be required. 

Punctuality – The group will begin on time and end on time. I will arrive on time and be ready to participate. 

Ethical Relationships – This is not a business group.  This is not a dating group.  No solicitations. This is also not a place to push religious beliefs or political agendas.  Spirituality can mean or be practiced in different ways to different people, and differences should be respected.

Non-Violence – Violence can be physical, verbal, emotional, spiritual … I acknowledge that my words and actions have an impact on those around me. I take responsibility for my words and actions. 

No Drugs or Alcohol – I will not attend the group while under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs. If I break this agreement, I will tell the group and accept the choice of the group in handling this to create a safe container. 

Participation – I will speak openly and truthfully in “I” statements, (Not “you” or “he”). Any man may pass at any time. Any man may STOP  a process by calling SAFETY in the service of maintaining safety. I am not here to give advice. If I want advice, I will ask for it specifically.

Checking Out – I will check out before disconnecting or before exiting the group.  I will not ghost the group. 

Who Talks When – A facilitator will make it clear whose turn it is to talk.  I won’t interrupt.  

Etiquette –Turning off your video without a reasonable cause and explanation could result in expulsion from the circle.  We need to trust those around us, and someone hidden takes away from that.  I will be present and not multitask. 

Acknowledgement & Commitment – I understand that the ManKind Project’s Open Men’s Groups are not a substitute for professional mental health services.  I am 18 years of age or older and I identify as a GBTQ+ man.  I commit to being empathetic, respectful, and welcoming to all who attend.  I understand that I may be removed from the group at any time for being disruptive or not following the MKP and group guidelines that have been reviewed.