Ethics Guidelines 

Ethical Guidelines and Community Code of Conduct

Ozarks Dharma Community is committed to cultivating a space of mutual respect, mindful presence, and ethical integrity. These guidelines are grounded in the Buddhist teachings, on moral conduct, particularly the Three Refuges, the Ten Grave Precepts, and the Ten Perfections, and draw from the best practices of established Dharma communities. They are intended to serve as both aspiration and foundation—guiding our conduct, informing our relationships, and supporting our collective awakening.

Three Refuges & Precepts

• Refuge in Buddha (Awakened Mind)

• Refuge in Dharma (Wisdom & Compassion)

• Refuge in Sangha (Community Interdependence)

Ten Grave Precepts

1. Affirm life; do not needlessly harm living beings.

2. Be giving; do not steal.

3. Honor the body; do not misuse sexuality.

4. Manifest truth; do not lie.

5. Proceed clearly; do not cloud the mind.

6. See the perfection; do not speak of others’ errors and faults.

7. Realize self and other as one; do not elevate self and blame others.

8. Give generously; do not withhold.

9. Actualize harmony; do not be angry.

10. Experience the intimacy of things; do not defile the Three Treasures.

10 Perfections

1. Generosity

2. Morality

3. Renunciation

4. Wisdom

5. Effort

6. Patience

7. Truth

8. Resolution

9. Loving-kindness

10. Equanimity

General Ethical Conduct 

All members, teachers, guests, and leaders of the Ozarks Dharma Community are expected to uphold these principles in the spirit of the Dharma—honoring the interconnectedness of all beings, supporting the growth of others, and deepening their own practice through ethical living. Where questions or concerns arise, we encourage open-hearted dialogue, and when needed, the support of our Board of Trustees.

• ODC is a container built on safety and trust. We are a layperson-led sangha that operates in a space of understanding, compassion, and vulnerability. As such, we all hold a mutual responsibility to maintain the wellbeing of the sangha. Act with integrity and awareness of how your words and actions may be perceived.

• Uphold the precepts in all interactions with the sangha and in any capacity in which you might represent the sangha by avoiding unskillful actions. Do not engage in, promote, or encourage actions that violate the five precepts (e.g., harming beings, intoxication, sexual misconduct, stealing, or lying).

• When contributing to sangha discussions or interacting with others during sangha events, practice skillful speech. Avoid harsh, divisive, or frivolous speech. Speak truthfully, helpfully, and with intention. Listen carefully. Stay on-topic where possible.

• Respect All Members and their practice. No harassment, discrimination, or personal attacks. Disagreement is allowed, but must be handled with restraint and clarity. This also encompasses being respectful during sits to preserve the noble atmosphere, such as arriving on time, entering quietly, and not behaving in such a way that distracts sangha. 

• Our sangha is for connecting and supporting each other in practice. Topics like religion or politics may be explored when approached through the lens of the Dharma—with the goal of understanding and applying the teachings, not debating or promoting views.

• Honor personal boundaries. When a participant expresses some kind of explicit personal boundary with another participant–such as not being interested in romantic engagements, or not wanting to message privately–it is expected that the other participant will honor those personal boundaries.

Relationships & Authority

• Be mindful of romantic/sexual relationships across power differentials.

• Avoid conflicts of interest (teacher/student, financial, etc.).

• Clear communication, accountability, and transparency expected from those with authority.

Inclusivity & Respect

• No discrimination

• Create safe, welcoming environments for practice.

Conflict Resolution & Misconduct Procedures

In a situation where a member's actions are persistently and/or egregiously misaligned with the sangha's values, we strive to address misconduct with care, document concerns thoroughly, and involve legal support when necessary, so that Ozarks Dharma Community can protect its members while maintaining a space of respect and compassion.

• Emergency Situations: If you feel like you are in imminent danger, please call 911 immediately. The sangha is not equipped to resolve emergent issues.

• Addressing Conflicts: If you have a conflict with a sangha member that you are unable to resolve on your own, we encourage you to reach out to a board member to share your grievance. If you are not familiar with any board member, reach out to another leader and ask them to notify the board on your behalf. We urge all members to advocate for themselves and ensure that any concerns are brought to light.

• Safe Communication: It’s encouraged that direct communication is conducted in a way that promotes understanding and safety. If the parties involved feel safe, the board will encourage direct, compassionate dialogue. 

  • For sensitive issues such as harassment, the board and any of its authorized representatives should always communicate in writing (texts, emails) and avoid phone or in-person conversations unless necessary, ensuring that at least one other group member is present to witness the exchange. 

  • Those handling the conflict should document everything related to these discussions, including incidents, communications, and decisions made.

• Documenting Issues: Any incident involving harassment, misconduct, or other grievances must be documented in writing. This includes:

  • Records of any incidents (dates, descriptions, names of witnesses if applicable).

  • Communications with the individual involved (texts, emails, voicemails).
    Internal group discussions regarding the issue.

  • ODC will maintain these records in a secure, confidential location, assigned to a dedicated person or small team.

• Involving Legal Counsel: If the issue cannot be resolved within the sangha, and especially in cases where legal concerns arise (e.g., harassment or violation of personal rights), it may be necessary to involve external legal counsel. This can help ensure that communications are phrased clearly and non-defamatorily, and avoid unintentional violations of rights, particularly regarding mental health issues.

• Dealing with Misconduct: If informal communication does not resolve the situation or if it is unsafe, the board and other leaders, as deemed necessary, will meet to determine a course of action. This may include:

  • Enforcing sanctions (e.g., temporary or permanent removal from group spaces).

  • Defining acceptable behaviors and creating boundaries that are in alignment with both the community’s ethical guidelines and legal protections.

  • Potential outcomes may also include the issuance of a no-trespass notice, particularly if the individual’s actions disrupt the sangha or continue after clear communication about boundaries. This step may require involvement from law enforcement or legal advisors.

Expelling Members: In situations where a member’s actions may no longer align with the sangha’s values, a sangha leader will communicate with both clarity and compassion. ODC does not promise ongoing support if the group is unable to provide it. Sample communication includes, “We hope you find the healing and care you need. At this time, our sangha is not equipped to meet your current needs.”

Board Approved 9/24/2025