The mission of SXSW is to help creative people achieve their goals. One way we do this is by fostering an environment for engaging, thought-provoking conversations and experiences.
However, SXSW is not a place for behavior that is inappropriate, off-topic, disruptive, abusive, or illegal.
SXSW defines inappropriate behavior as conduct or action that violates SXSW’s policies or protocols (including those pertaining to health and safety), or undermines the spirit of SXSW, including any form of written, verbal or physical abuse or threats, illegal or disruptive activity, the use of derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures or actions, any form of harassment, racism, sexism, or any other targeted comments which may violate any local, state or federal laws or cause harm to another SXSW participant, whether before, during or after SXSW events. This Code of Conduct applies to conduct leading up to and during the SXSW Conference and Festivals, the SXSW EDU Conference and Festival, and/or any SXSW official partner events. It also applies via the SXSW GO mobile app, through social media channels, using the SXSW PanelPicker®, while engaging in any digital aspect of the events, or any other method of communication.
SXSW may take action in its discretion to address any individual(s) or group(s) it believes fail to meet the standards set forth in this Code of Conduct, including, without limitation, revoking the violating parties’ credentials without refund.
During in-person events SXSW expects that all attendees of our events follow the then current public health guidelines related to safety, hygiene and communicable illnesses (including COVID-19).
Please contact conduct@sxsw.com if you believe you’ve observed or experienced a violation of this Code of Conduct, and SXSW will work to assess the situation and to respond as soon as possible. Please note that notifying SXSW does not constitute or replace a notification to local law enforcement.
All suspected violations of the law should be reported to local law enforcement. For emergencies, immediately dial 9-1-1. For non-emergencies, the Austin Police Department is available at 3-1-1 or (512) 974-2000.
