Concern Reporting#

The GNOME Foundation is committed to open communication, mutual respect, and a culture where everyone feels safe to speak up. We want every person involved with the Foundation — whether as a contractor, officer, or member — to feel heard and empowered to raise concerns about conduct, policy, or how we can do better.

This policy makes it straightforward to raise concerns, large or small. Doing so is not only welcome — it’s encouraged.

What can be reported?#

You can (and should) report any of the following:

  • Violations of Foundation policies or procedures

  • Unlawful or unethical behavior

  • Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or retaliation

  • Conflicts or interpersonal issues affecting the Foundation’s work or community

  • Concerns about how the Foundation is led, operated, or governed

  • Suggestions for improving our culture, processes, or communication

If you’re not sure whether something counts, go ahead and report it. If it’s on your mind, we want to know.

Who can submit a concern?#

Anyone who has been directly affected by the conduct of a person acting in an official or paid capacity on behalf of the Foundation is welcome to raise a concern under this policy. This includes contractors, volunteers in official roles, and Board members.

Concerns about conduct between community members that does not involve someone in an official or paid role should be directed to the GNOME Code of Conduct Committee.

How to report a concern#

You have options. Choose whatever feels most comfortable:

  • Contact the Executive Director — reachable at exec@gnome.org. This is the primary point of contact for most concerns.

  • Contact the President or Vice President — if your concern involves the Executive Director, or if you’d prefer to raise it at Board level, you can reach the President at president@gnome.org. You can alternatively contact a Vice President. See Officers for details on who occupies which position.

  • Use our anonymous reporting form — report a concern. This submits a concern report to the Executive Director without the need to identify yourself. While anonymity may limit our ability to follow up fully, we take all reports seriously.

What happens next?#

Once a concern is raised, we will:

  • Acknowledge the report as soon as possible

  • Ask you to put your concern in writing if you haven’t already

  • Look into the matter promptly and objectively

  • Keep your identity confidential as far as possible, consistent with a fair and thorough review

  • Take appropriate steps to address and resolve the matter

We’ll keep you informed where we can, though some details or outcomes may need to remain confidential.

No retaliation, ever#

We strictly prohibit retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, cooperates in a review, or supports another person in doing so.

If you believe you’ve experienced retaliation, please report it immediately — we’ll treat it as a serious and separate concern.

Let’s keep improving#

The Foundation exists to serve its community. Raising concerns helps us uphold our values and become the organization we want to be. Your voice matters.