Code of Ethics

The foundation of trust, safety, and sacred integrity

Our Commitment

The Code of Ethics is the backbone of NACLOA. It governs the conduct of every leader, medicine person, and member in our community. We believe that sacred work demands the highest standards of integrity, safety, and respect. These are not guidelines — they are non-negotiable commitments.

Responsibilities of Leaders & Medicine People

🔥 Safety Above All

Every ceremony leader and medicine person bears the sacred responsibility of keeping participants safe — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Safety protocols must be followed at all gatherings without exception.

🌿 Inclusiveness & Welcome

Leaders must create space that welcomes all people regardless of race, background, gender, or faith tradition. Discrimination of any kind has no place in our ceremonies or community.

👁️ Watchfulness & Presence

Medicine people must remain fully present and attentive throughout every ceremony. They are responsible for reading the energy of the space, attending to the needs of participants, and maintaining the integrity of the sacred container.

🚫 No Exploitation

Leaders must never exploit their position for personal gain, sexual advantage, or undue influence over members. The role of a medicine person is one of service, not power. Any violation of this principle results in immediate removal.

📚 Training & Vetting

All ceremony leaders must be properly trained, vetted, and recognized by the NACLOA council of elders before leading any gathering. Self-appointed leaders are not permitted.

🌱 Sacred Context Only

Any sacred medicines or sacraments used in ceremony must be administered only within a sacred ceremonial context, under the direct supervision of a recognized medicine person, and in accordance with sincere religious practice.

Responsibilities of Members

🙏 Preparation & Intention

Members must approach all ceremonies with proper preparation, clear intention, and respect for the sacred nature of the work. This includes following all pre-ceremony guidelines provided by the medicine person.

✅ Informed Consent

Participation in all ceremonies is voluntary. Members must give informed consent before participating and may withdraw at any time. No one will ever be coerced or pressured into any practice.

🔒 Confidentiality

What happens in ceremony stays in ceremony. Members must respect the privacy and vulnerability of fellow participants. Sharing others' experiences or personal disclosures outside the ceremonial space is a violation of trust.

🤲 Respect & Reverence

Members must treat all participants, leaders, and the ceremonial space itself with deep respect. This includes arriving on time, following protocols, and honoring the traditions being practiced.

💛 Community Support

Members are encouraged to support one another — during ceremony and in daily life. We are a family, and families show up for each other.

Zero Tolerance

NACLOA maintains a zero-tolerance policy for:

  • Sexual abuse, harassment, or exploitation of any kind
  • Physical violence or threats
  • Financial exploitation of members
  • Use of sacred medicines outside of ceremonial context or without medicine person supervision
  • Discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or background
  • Violation of participant confidentiality

Any substantiated violation results in immediate removal from the community and, where applicable, referral to appropriate authorities.

A Sacred Standard

This Code of Ethics is not a formality. It is the living standard by which we hold ourselves accountable — to each other, to the Creator, and to the sacred traditions we carry forward.

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