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Code of Conduct & Ethics

The Ohio America Pageant Code of Ethics is subject to change or revision at the sole discretion of the Executive Director and/or the Ethics Board. Updates may be made as needed to ensure alignment with the pageant's mission, values, operational requirements, and the Ethics and Standards of the National Pageant. All participants, staff, and stakeholders are responsible for reviewing and adhering to the most current version of the Code of Conduct & Ethics. By participating in this pageant, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct & Ethics. Your participation is a privilege, and we expect all contestants to uphold the values of respect, integrity, and professionalism.

 

As a participant in our pageant organization, you are held to the highest standard of integrity, sportsmanship, and professionalism. Our pageant is more than a competition; it is a sisterhood dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering positive leadership in our communities. By participating, you agree to uphold the following Code of Conduct & Ethics:

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1. Respect & Fairness

  • Treat fellow contestants, pageant staff, and all individuals with kindness, fairness, and respect.

  • Bullying, gossip, or any form of harassment will not be tolerated.

  • Show sportsmanship and support for all contestants, regardless of competition outcomes.

2. Conflict Resolution

  • If a conflict arises, you must seek approval from the Executive Director or a member of the Ethics Board before responding.

  • Negative confrontations, in person or online, are strictly prohibited.

3. Social Media Guidelines

  • All social media content must reflect the values of the organization.

  • Refrain from posting controversial, political, or polarizing content while representing the organization.

  • Cyberbullying or engaging in online disputes is strictly forbidden.

  • Ensure all posts and interactions are appropriate and in good taste.

4. Ethics & Fair Play

  • Cheating, dishonesty, or any form of unethical behavior during the competition will result in immediate disqualification.

  • No contestant shall seek unfair advantages or engage in dishonest tactics.

5. Venue Respect & Cleanup

  • Contestants must respect all pageant venues and event spaces.

  • Clean up your designated space immediately following the pageant.

  • Take all personal belongings with you; venue staff and pageant personnel are not responsible for discarded items such as hangers, garment bags, or wardrobe.

6. Coaching & Mentorship

  • Current titleholders may not coach contestants in the incoming class; coaching is only permitted once a title has been relinquished.

  • The Executive Director, Contestant Coordinator and Junior Division Director are also prohibited from coaching contestants.

7. Punctuality & Professionalism

  • Contestants must be on time and present for all scheduled events, including the pageant events  and community appearances.

  • Tardiness may impact eligibility for titles and awards.

8. Public Conduct & Representation

  • Titleholders and contestants must maintain a professional and positive image while in crown and sash.

  • Consuming alcohol to the point of intoxication, appearing drunk or disorderly at events, or engaging in inappropriate behavior will result in reporting to legal counsel for the forfeiture of your title. 

  • Follow all rules and guidelines set forth by the National Office.

9. Judging Considerations & Rule Violations

  • Any violation of these rules will be reported to the judges, who may take it into account when selecting titleholders.

  • Serious violations, including threats, theft, or hate speech, will be reported to the National Office’s legal counsel, leading to immediate disqualification and forfeiture of all pageant fees and tickets purchased.

10. Audience Conduct

  • Contestants are responsible for ensuring that their family and friends behave respectfully in the audience.

  • Cheering and encouragement are welcome; however, heckling, booing, or any form of negativity directed at contestants, audience members, or staff will not be tolerated.

  • Violators will be escorted from the venue by security, forfeit their tickets, and the associated contestant will be immediately disqualified from the pageant.

11. Additional Rules

  • All contestants must comply with dress codes and appearance guidelines outlined by the organization.

  • Titleholders are expected to fulfill all duties and appearances outlined in their contracts.

  • Any breaches of contract may result in the forfeiture of the title.

Questions or Concerns? Contact us!

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