code of conduct


The Token Society of Great Britain welcomes participation from members of all ethnicities and genders. We are brought together by a shared interest in Japanese swords and related art forms. As the Society grows and encompasses a more diverse range of interests our membership will include those with many years experience in the field and those just starting on the journey. To ensure the continued health and growth of the Society, established members will offer help and support to novices when required. The key rule we apply without exception is that all artefacts and all members, new and old, are treated with respect and courtesy

 

We reserve the right to refuse, withhold or annul membership of those who evince conduct which is:

  • illegal
  • false or misleading, defamatory, denigrating
  • invasive of other's privacy, threatening, intimidating, harrassing
  • obscene, pornographic, or offensive
  • promoting bigotry, racism, hatred, or harm against any individual or group
  • infringing another's rights, including any intellectual property rights or copyright


The Society and its committee do not accept any liability for or support any personal attacks – please only make constructive criticism, be positive and respectful at all times.


Please refrain from any slander, libel or defamation statements. This is illegal and a serious crime according to UK law. Slander is an untrue spoken statement, while libel is publishing a falsehood about someone else. UK law encourages freedom of speech but does not allow telling lies, which could damage a person’s reputation or business. If defamation is proven in a civil action, significant damages can be awarded to the plaintiff.


Under normal circumstances we do not encourage the sale of items at our evening meetings. We are not a commercial enterprise and do not engage in commercial activities as an organisation. Our regional meetings, which are longer, could include a sales table, at which members on their account and not on belhalf of the Society, could sell their own items.


We would ask any member selling items to abide by the following guidelines:

  • Items should be accurately described and the origin of any attribution clearly stated.
  • In the absence of any official authentication the seller must offer a clear description and any details of origin they have.
  • No member may use their membership or association with the Token Society to imply any form of endorsement by the Society of their own abilities or the authenticity of their stock.


We do not endorse business advertising, self-promotions or spam. Members, readers and contributors should not use the Society media presence or publications such as the magazine or social media pages or website as a vehicle for sales activity or promotion unless expressly authorised by the Committee.


Any member who has concerns that we are not fully meeting the standards outlined above should contact a member of the committee.  We are all students of Nihonto. As our Society grows we have a duty to behave in a respectful manner, to support the Society’s ongoing activities and to help us make sure the study of this fascinating area of history continues for many years to come.