Code of Conduct

Arya Samaj Educational & Cultural Society of British Columbia

1. Purpose of This Code

This Code of Conduct ensures that all members, volunteers, leaders, and visitors uphold the Vedic values, ethical standards, and community harmony central to Arya Samaj. It guides respectful behaviour, transparent governance, and a safe, welcoming environment for all.

2. Expected Conduct

2.1 Respect & Dignity

• Treat every individual with courtesy, fairness, and equality, regardless of age, gender, background, or beliefs.
• Do not spread disinformation. There is zero tolerance on any member who knowingly spreads false or misleading information that affects the reputation of an individual or governance and functioning of the organization will face disciplinary action. This may include verbal warnings, written notices, suspension from meetings, removal from roles, or membership review. All members must verify information through official channels before sharing it. Repeated or intentional harm to individual or Samaj will not be tolerated.
• Use respectful language and maintain a positive tone during meetings, events, and communications.
• Avoid gossip, personal attacks, or behaviour that harms unity.

2.2 Integrity & Honesty

• Act truthfully in all dealings, reflecting the Arya Samaj principle of Satya (Truth).
• Declare conflicts of interest when participating in decisions.
• Do not misuse temple resources, authority, or information.

2.3 Commitment to Vedic Values

• Uphold the Ten Principles of Arya Samaj in conduct and decision‑making.
• Promote non‑violence, compassion, and ethical behaviour.
• Encourage learning, self‑improvement, and spiritual growth.

2.4 Safe & Inclusive Environment

• Maintain a peaceful, family‑friendly atmosphere at all events.
• Avoid disruptive behaviour, harassment, discrimination, or intimidation.
• Support a clean, safe, and respectful environment for children, seniors, and families.

2.5 Responsible Participation

• Attend meetings and events punctually and prepared.
• Follow meeting procedures and allow others to speak without interruption.
• Support decisions made through democratic processes.

3. Expectations for Leaders & Committee Members

3.1 Transparency & Accountability

• Conduct all financial and administrative duties with full transparency.
• Share accurate information with members when requested.
• Maintain proper records, minutes, and reporting.

3.2 Ethical Decision‑Making

• Make decisions in the best interest of the Society, not personal interests.
• Encourage open dialogue and listen to diverse viewpoints.
• Avoid favouritism, bias, or misuse of authority.

3.3 Role Modelling

• Demonstrate calm, respectful behaviour at all times.
• Promote unity and discourage conflict.
• Uphold the dignity of the Society in public and private settings.

4. Volunteer Responsibilities

• Follow instructions from coordinators respectfully.
• Maintain confidentiality when handling member information.
• Serve with humility, kindness, and dedication (Seva).
• Report safety concerns or misconduct promptly.

5. Conflict Resolution Process

• Conflicts should first be addressed calmly between the individuals involved.
• If unresolved, concerns may be brought to the Executive Committee in writing.
• The Committee will review the matter fairly, respectfully, and confidentially.
• Decisions will be guided by Vedic principles, Society bylaws, and fairness.

6. Disciplinary Measures

If behaviour violates this Code, the Society may take appropriate action, including:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Temporary suspension from activities
• Removal from volunteer or leadership roles
• Membership review as per bylaws

All actions will be taken respectfully and with due process.

7. Commitment Statement

All members, volunteers, and leaders agree to uphold this Code of Conduct to ensure that Arya Samaj Educational & Cultural Society of British Columbia remains a place of truth, harmony, learning, and service.

---

Governance Code for Executive Committee

Arya Samaj Educational & Cultural Society of British Columbia

1. Purpose of This Governance Code

This Governance Code ensures that the Executive Committee leads the Society with integrity, transparency, accountability, and adherence to Vedic values. It guides ethical decision‑making, respectful conduct, and responsible stewardship of community trust.

2. Responsibilities of the Executive Committee

2.1 Leadership & Representation

• Serve as role models of truth, respect, and unity.
• Represent the Society with dignity in all public and community interactions.
• Promote harmony and discourage conflict or division.

2.2 Strategic Oversight

• Uphold the Mission, Vision, and Principles of Arya Samaj.
• Ensure programs, events, and decisions align with Vedic teachings and community needs.
• Plan long‑term goals for spiritual, cultural, and educational development.

2.3 Transparent Governance

• Maintain accurate records, minutes, and reports.
• Share information openly with members, except where confidentiality is required.
• Ensure fair, democratic processes for decision‑making.

2.4 Financial Accountability

• Manage all funds responsibly and ethically.
• Ensure proper budgeting, reporting, and documentation.
• Provide clear financial updates to members upon request.
• Avoid any misuse of funds, assets, or authority.

3. Ethical Standards for Committee Members

3.1 Integrity & Truthfulness

• Act honestly in all matters, reflecting the Arya Samaj principle of Satya.
• Avoid misleading statements, hidden agendas, or personal bias.

3.2 Conflict of Interest

• Declare any personal, financial, or family interests that may influence decisions.
• Refrain from voting or influencing matters where a conflict exists.
• Prioritize the Society’s welfare over personal benefit.

3.3 Respectful Conduct

• Treat all members with dignity and fairness.
• Allow others to speak without interruption during meetings.
• Avoid gossip, personal attacks, or behaviour that harms unity.

3.4 Confidentiality

• Protect sensitive information shared within the Committee.
• Do not disclose private discussions, member information, or internal matters without authorization.

4. Meeting Conduct & Decision‑Making

4.1 Professional Meeting Behaviour

• Start and end meetings on time.
• Follow the agenda and maintain order.
• Speak respectfully and listen actively.

4.2 Democratic Process

• Encourage open discussion and diverse viewpoints.
• Decisions should be made by majority vote, following bylaws.
• Once a decision is made, all members support it publicly.

4.3 Documentation

• Minutes must be clear, accurate, and approved at the next meeting.
• Records should be stored securely and made available to members when appropriate.

5. Accountability & Performance

5.1 Responsibility to Members

• Serve the community with humility and fairness.
• Respond to concerns respectfully and promptly.
• Ensure programs and services meet community needs.

5.2 Self‑Evaluation

• Review Committee performance annually.
• Identify areas for improvement in governance, communication, and service.

5.3 Training & Development

• Encourage learning about Vedic teachings, nonprofit governance, and leadership skills.
• Support new Committee members with orientation and guidance.

6. Conduct Expectations for Office Bearers

President

• Provide calm, fair leadership.
• Facilitate respectful meetings.
• Represent the Society publicly.

Vice‑President

• Support the President and ensure continuity of leadership.
• Assist with conflict resolution and program oversight.

Secretary

• Maintain accurate records, minutes, and correspondence.
• Ensure timely communication with members.

Treasurer

• Manage finances with full transparency.
• Provide clear financial reports and maintain proper documentation.
• Ensure compliance with CRA charitable requirements.

Committee Members

• Participate actively and respectfully.
• Support events, programs, and community engagement.
• Uphold the Mission and Principles of Arya Samaj.

7. Breaches of Governance Code

If a Committee member violates this Code, the Society may take appropriate action, including:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Temporary suspension from duties
• Removal from office as per bylaws
• Mediation or conflict resolution processes

All actions will be taken respectfully, fairly, and in alignment with Vedic values.

8. Commitment Statement

All Executive Committee members agree to uphold this Governance Code to ensure that Arya Samaj Educational & Cultural Society of British Columbia remains a place of truth, unity, service, and spiritual upliftment.