IN LUCE VERITAS

Induction into HSCA is always earned through merit, effort, and ethical engagement — never through coercion, intimidation, or harm. We strictly prohibit any form of hazing in connection with Society activities, Member inductions, events, or informal interactions between any community members, including but not limited to students, educators, Members, Associates, Staff, Volunteers, and other participants of our program regardless of consent or intent. Hazing is defined as any conduct that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a participant; causes embarrassment, shame, humiliation, or undue stress; coerced participation in potentially harmful or degrading activities; or involves the willful destruction of property, verbal abuse, or forced behavior as a condition of acceptance or continuation in a group. This policy applies to all organizational activities, in person, virtual, official, and unofficial.

As a program that operates across schools and digital platforms, and that may work with student data, HSCA understands that the responsible handling of personal information is a core component of public trust. We collect and use personal data only for mission-related purposes such as Chapter operations, communication, and program delivery, with informed consent whenever required. We limit data collection to what is necessary, especially for sensitive information, and restrict access to authorized Staff or Volunteers while safeguarding it with security measures. Third-party platforms used for data handling must meet strict privacy and ethical standards, and we will never sell or non-consensually share personal information. Data is retained only as long as legally or operationally necessary, and Members can request to review, correct, or delete their information.

The diversity of the communities we serve is one of our greatest strengths. HSCA prohibits any form of unlawful and/or unethical discrimination and upholds equal opportunity principles in all aspects of its operations. It is the policy of HSCA to ensure that no person shall be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ethnicity, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, or local law.

HSCA is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all individuals participating in its programs or representing the Society. Harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Harassment includes any unwelcome verbal, physical, or visual conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile environment or unreasonably interferes with participation in the Society's programs. Examples of harassment include but are not limited to: offensive jokes or comments; unwanted physical contact; inappropriate or suggestive remarks; visual displays of degrading or abusive material; or intimidation, bullying, and retaliation.

At the heart of our Society is a commitment to honesty, accountability, and principled leadership. Whistleblowing is not an act of disloyalty but one of responsibility and service. By encouraging good-faith reporting of concerns without fear of retaliation, we ensure that our organization remains guided by a strong moral backbone. Retaliation against an individual for reporting or participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited and will be subject to disciplinary action. Any and all concerns should be sent to reporting@honorsocietyofcinematicarts.org.