VALUES & EQUALITY
We, the members of Kaplaaki, wanted to create values for our guild that represent us and our student organization. We aim to ensure that our guild’s activities remain on the right path, allowing future members to enjoy a community where they can feel valued. While defining values is common in organizations, it is still relatively rare in student communities.
The purpose of our values is to foster a sense of belonging and to guide our actions. These five values encapsulate what it means to be a Kaplaaki member and remind us to remain committed to our shared goal — to proudly be a member of Kaplaaki, both now and in the future.
- Taking responsibility
- Promoting equality
- Investing in development
- Working together
- Proudly part of Kaplaaki
Taking responsibility
At Kaplaaki, we act responsibly every day, both ecologically and socially. We serve as a model of accountability, with honesty as a core principle. We honor written and verbal agreements and promises — always.
Promoting equality
At Kaplaaki, we treat everyone equally, and all are welcome to participate in our activities. We adhere to Kaplaaki’s Declaration of Equality, respecting diversity and opposing discrimination to ensure equality regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, beliefs, or any other personal characteristics.
Investing in development
At Kaplaaki, we offer new experiences and opportunities to grow and develop together. We are open to change and pursue continuous improvement to ensure the quality of our activities — now and in the future.
Working together
At Kaplaaki, we support one another, ensuring no one is left alone — we stand united. Together, we foster an encouraging atmosphere that builds friendships. We help each other so that everyone feels valued and supported.
Proudly part of Kaplaaki
At Kaplaaki, we are proud of our community and bear our guild’s name with honor. Our actions reflect our long-standing traditions, and we value our community and its achievements. Our conduct embodies the spirit of Kaplaaki, and we represent the guild with pride.
Equality
Kaplaaki is committed to promoting equality and equity in all its activities to ensure that everyone experiences their environment as safe as possible. Equality is integral to all of Kaplaaki’s activities, and within Kaplaaki, everyone is equal regardless of any personal attributes. Kaplaaki exists for its members, and each member should feel equal and welcomed in our community.
Kaplaaki adheres strictly to the Non-Discrimination and Equality Act, as well as LTKY’s Declaration of Equality. Kaplaaki continuously works to advance equality in all its operations. Read Kaplaaki’s Declaration of Equality here!
Equality is embedded in all of Kaplaaki’s activities, and any issues, feedback, or suggested improvements can be directed to Kaplaaki’s Chairperson at pj@kaplaaki.fi or to the harassment contact persons.
Harassment Contact People
You can reach out to a harassment contact person if you experience or witness any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying, intimidation, or other inappropriate behavior. Harassment contact person, known as HÄRY, can be contacted via email or in person. Conversations with harassment contact people are always confidential, and no action is taken without the consent of the person seeking help. All discussions and contacts remain entirely confidential, as HÄRY is bound by confidentiality. They support and advise students in addressing harassment situations and, if necessary, direct them to appropriate resources for further assistance.
What is Harassment?
Harassment includes all forms of mental or physical bullying, intimidation, gender discrimination, inappropriate treatment, discrimination, harassment, offensive comments, defamation, or any behavior that the person affected perceives as offensive or uncomfortable. It also includes behavior that continues despite the affected individual expressing it as inappropriate. It is important to remember that what may seem normal to one person may feel disturbing to another.
As a member of our student organization, it is also essential to uphold our Declaration of Equality and behave accordingly. Let’s ensure that everyone feels comfortable in our student community!
Harassment Contact Process
- After initial contact, a meeting can be arranged with the reporting person to discuss the matter if they wish. It’s also possible to contact a harassment contact person without wanting an in-depth discussion—for example, if someone simply wants to report an incident they have witnessed.
- If a discussion is sufficient, the process ends there. If further action is needed, the harassment contact persons will invite both parties to mediation and, if necessary, refer them to additional resources. If needed, follow-up meetings can be scheduled after a set period to monitor the situation. After this, the process concludes.
Contact
You may contact a harassment contact person if you feel harassed or have witnessed a harassment situation within our community as an outsider. Kaplaaki’s harassment contact people are always available:
Alvar Dahlskog
Vilma Melkko