Nagaloka Grievance Reporting Policy [2024]
Nagaloka’s Ethical Guidelines and Teacher Agreement are to guide the actions of those with positions of responsibility at Nagaloka.
When difficulties arise, we trust that each member of the sangha can reflect on their own actions and see where they can first take responsibility for their part in a particular dynamic. We strongly encourage sangha members to approach one another to address concerns or conflict. If this does not feel comfortable or safe, sangha members are encouraged to talk to trusted spiritual friends or Order Members who can support them.
The grievance procedure is in place to support accountability and reconciliation in the event that the above is not possible or has not resolved the situation. In all events, we seek to respond to any conflict or grievance in a way that promotes greater individual and collective self-awareness and responsibility.
TERMS:
Grievance: a written notice of misconduct by a “teacher.” At the Chair’s discretion, oral complaints may be handled similarly to a grievance. The misconduct must relate to an activity affiliated with the Nagaloka Buddhist Center and approved by the Executive Council.
Teacher: any person carrying out an activity on behalf of the Council. Teacher refers broadly to anyone in a teaching, support, or administrative role.
Misconduct: any behavior breaching the Teacher Agreement.
Council Chair: the Chair of Nagaloka’s Executive Council or Nagaloka’s Safeguarding Officer, if one has been designated. If both positions are filled, the two leaders will collaborate.
PROCESS:
A. A grievance can be reported to a Nagaloka event facilitator, an Executive Council member, or info@nagalokabuddhistcenter.org. It may begin as an oral communication, but must conveyed in writing to ensure action is taken. When appropriate, grievances can also be reported to the worldwide Triratna organization.
B. Grievances and oral complaints are to be passed on to the Council Chair.
C. The Chair, who may consult with appropriate others, will establish the method for inquiry, including a timetable and who will inquire.
D. During regularly scheduled Council meetings, the Chair is to share …
• the nature of the grievance, when the misconduct may have occurred, and when the grievance was received; and
• the method of the inquiry, and its progress until a final resolution is confirmed by the Council.
E. Disagreements within the Council about how to handle a grievance may be taken to the Center President (if one exists) or Order Members in the region for their input and mediation.
F. The person making the grievance is to receive timely updates about the inquiry and the final resolution.
This document is to be made public. Nagaloka’s Chair is responsible for directing teachers’ attention to the document.
Approved by the Nagaloka Executive Council on 3/9/24