Dear Brothers, Ladies, "Moms" and "Dads":
One of the most important duties that we have as adult volunteers is to ensure that we are providing safe environment for our youth. Our ritual speaks of keeping our bodies pure form uncleanness. In looking at the best practices used by other jurisdictions, we will be adopting a zero tolerance policy on behaviors that has no place in DeMolay.
I would note that this zero tolerance applies not only to things that physically hurt our bodies - vaping or alcohol, etc - but also things that can hurt the mental and emotional wellbeing such as bullying or verbal abuse.
This policy was sent to the State Executive Committee and the State Advisory Council and they have had time to review and provide feedback. I greatly appreciate all of their positive contributions.
During this collaboration several advisors asked about how do we define bullying? Others pointed out that our Great State has laws on the books about bullying. Simply saying "we know it when we see it," is not good enough. I have asked Past State Master Councilor "Dad" Justin Cook to head up a working group to better spell out in a policy, a working document, around bullying and an implementation plan.
We have not had an issue with any of the prohibited items in New York DeMolay, but good fences make good neighbors.
Yours for a Stronger New York DeMolay,
"Dad" Brusoe
New York DeMolay enforces a Zero Tolerance Policy with regard to the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons, illegal tobacco use including vaping, hazing, bullying, or any physical, verbal, sexual, or emotional abuse of any kind at any DeMolay function. This policy applies to both Active DeMolays and adult volunteers. Violations of risk management, youth protection, or prohibited substance policies will result in disciplinary measures up to and including suspension or expulsion consistent with the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International.
Sent to SEC 10/8/2019
Sent to SAC 10/9/2019
Adopted as policy 10/17/2019