The Policy and Procedure Manual is intended to describe existing policies as they apply to the administration and operation of the District. The Board of Park Commissioners has reviewed and approved this Policy Manual and will in the future review and revise the policies contained herein as it deems appropriate.

4.18.1 Anti-Harassment. The Park District of Highland Park is committed to an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Each individual has the right to an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that is free of discrimination, consistent with the Park District’s Policy on Nondiscrimination and Inclusion, including harassment.  Therefore, the District expects that behavior from Park District patrons are free of bullying and harassment.  The Park District of Highland Park strongly opposes prejudice, bias, hostility, discrimination or violence against individuals, staff and patrons based on their race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, immigration status, gender, or gender identity. The Park District unequivocally condemns any racist, xenophobic, misogynistic, antisemitic, anti-LGBTQ+, ableist, or otherwise hate motived groups or individuals who threaten any form of violence towards, harassment, or discrimination against our residents, visitors, customers or staff.  Bullying or harassment is any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, or physical act (including electronically transmitted acts- (i.e. cyberbullying) that is reasonably perceived as being dehumanizing, intimidating, hostile, humiliating, threatening, or is otherwise likely to evoke fear of physical harm and/or emotional distress. Bullying or harassment, like other forms of aggressive and violent behaviors, interferes with a participant’s ability to learn and limits their involvement. Staff, parents, volunteers, and participants are expected to refuse to tolerate bullying and harassment and are to demonstrate behavior that is both respectful and civil. It is especially important for adults to model these behaviors in order to provide positive examples for participant behavior.

4.18.2 Behavior Management. Patrons are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times while attending any park district program or facility. For the purpose of the Behavior Management Policy, the term “patron” refers to all users, participants, guardians, and spectators and the term “program” refers to all park district services and facility usage one may attend as a patron including participation in programs which may or may not require an admission fee. The following guidelines have been developed to help make programs safe and enjoyable for all patrons. Additional rules may be developed for specific programs as deemed necessary by staff.  The agency insists that all participants comply with a basic behavior code. All patrons shall: A. Show respect to all patrons, staff, volunteers, and themselves. B. Adhere to Park District Policy, Conduct Ordinance, and Park District program and/or facility rules and take directions from staff in the enforcement of such. C. Refrain from using abusive, harassing, or foul language. D. Refrain from threatening or causing bodily harm to self, other patrons, and staff. E. Refrain from bullying or harassing other patrons or program staff and/or supervisors as further explained in the Park District Behavior Management Procedure. Policy # 4.18 – Anti-Harassment and Behavior Management  Page 1 of 2 124F. Show respect for equipment, supplies, and facilities.