Miracon Festival Association Policies
*Smoking/Vaping, Drugs & Alcohol
Miracon is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages. Outside alcohol and any legal or illegal recreational drugs are strictly prohibited onsite. Individuals suspected of drinking excessively or appearing intoxicated due to any substance will be asked to leave the convention without refund.
Please note that smoking and vaping indoors are illegal as per the regulations of the province of New Brunswick. The Miramichi Eco Centre is a smoke-free environment in compliance with New Brunswick mandates:
Under the Smoke-Free Places Act smoking and vaping will not be permitted:
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on patios and all similar outdoor public facilities where food and/or alcohol is served and within three metres of the patio’s boundary;
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within nine metres of doorways, windows and air intakes of enclosed public places and indoor workplaces;
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on or within 20 metres of children’s equipment and sports areas located in an outdoor public place;
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on or within nine metres of a public walking or jogging trail in an outdoor public place; and
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within the boundaries of provincial parks except within the boundaries of rented campsites, golf courses and designated areas within the park.
*Badges & Wristbands*
Your badge and/or wristband must be displayed at all times. Badges and wristbands are non-transferrable, not replaceable, and no refunds will be issued if lost.
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*Costumes & Clothing*
Miracon is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages, and it's important that all participants are dressed appropriately for our audience. Nudity, whether real or simulated, is not permitted at Miracon or any Miracon-run events. All attendees, regardless of whether they are in costume or street clothes, must be dressed in a manner suitable for an all-ages family event. If nudity is identified, individuals may be asked to cover up or leave the event.
When wearing skin-tight costumes, it's recommended to consider wearing a dance belt or other support device. Opaque bodysuits that simulate nudity are not allowed.
Costumes and clothing should be constructed sturdily to minimize the risk of malfunctions that could lead to accidental exposure. For example, if your character's costume includes a towel or sea shells, ensure they are securely fastened, and proper undergarments are worn.
If you have any concerns about the appropriateness of your costume, please reach out to miraconfestivalassociation@gmail.com for clarification.
Individuals wearing clothing or costumes that do not comply with this policy, as determined solely by Miracon, will be asked to cover up or leave the event.
*Respectful Community Policy*
Miracon is dedicated to nurturing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community. We uphold values of equality, opportunity, and self-expression, and are steadfast in our commitment to fostering a respectful atmosphere, free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying, both at our events and within our online communities.
The purpose of this policy is to:
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Promote positive and respectful environments
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Establish a shared understanding of what constitutes a safe community
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Clarify Miracon's expectations for maintaining a respectful environment
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Prevent discrimination, harassment, and violence in accordance with the New Brunswick Human Rights Act.
This policy applies to behavior in various community spaces, including:
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All Miracon-hosted events, including the annual convention
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Events sponsored by Miracon
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Events attended by Miracon in an official capacity
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Online spaces controlled or managed by Miracon
This policy is binding on all Miracon staff, volunteers, guests, presenters, contractors, community members, and event attendees. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
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Discrimination as defined above
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Harassment, whether verbal, nonverbal, written, or digital
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Sexual harassment, including unwelcome advances, requests, or propositions
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Violence or threats of violence
Individuals attending events officially affiliated with Miracon, but not under Miracon's direct supervision, may also be subject to this policy based on interactions within the community.
Reporting and Investigations:
Miracon encourages individuals who experience or witness discrimination, harassment, or violence to report such incidents. Retaliation against those reporting incidents in good faith is strictly prohibited.
Incidents should be reported to a Miracon Staffer or Volunteer, which is the preferred method for serious incidents. Reports can also be submitted via email to miraconfestivalassociation@gmail.com. We will respond promptly to all reports.
Miracon staff will investigate all reported incidents under this policy and take appropriate action to address violations. This may include referral to authorities or government agencies for further investigation, removal or banning from Miracon-run spaces, or expulsion from ticketed events without refunds.
Confidentiality:
All reports, incidents, and decisions related to this policy are treated confidentially. Breaches of confidentiality will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action against the responsible party.
*Anti-Harassment Policy*
At Miracon Festival Association, we are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants, including attendees, vendors, volunteers, staff, and guests. We do not tolerate harassment of any kind, including but not limited to:
1. Verbal Harassment: This includes derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, or verbal abuse related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion, or any other protected characteristic.
2. Physical Harassment: This includes unwelcome physical contact, assault, or any other form of physical intimidation.
3. Sexual Harassment: This includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or any other verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
4. Stalking or Intimidation: This includes following someone, repeatedly contacting them against their wishes, or engaging in behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
5. Unwelcome Photography or Recording: This includes taking photographs, videos, or audio recordings of individuals without their consent.
6. Other Harassment: This includes any conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment, or that interferes with an individual's participation in the event.
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If you experience harassment or witness harassment happening to someone else, we encourage you to report it immediately to any member of the Miracon staff or volunteer team. Reports can be made in person or via email to [designated email address]. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and confidentially.
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Consequences for harassment may include, but are not limited to, warnings, expulsion from the event without refund, and banning from future events. Miracon staff reserves the right to take appropriate action to address any instances of harassment, up to and including involving law enforcement if necessary.
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We thank all attendees, vendors, volunteers, staff, and guests for their cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone at Miracon.
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*Accessibility*
Miracon is committed to providing a safe and accessible environment for all attendees, regardless of any disabilities or gender identity.
*Washroom Policy*
Miracon and the venue management want to offer all our attendees a comfortable experience at the convention. All participants at the event are encouraged to use the washroom to which they identify.
*Breast Feeding Policy*
Breastfeeding is permitted, without question or hesitation, in any area of the convention at any time. Should any person breastfeeding wish for privacy, a breastfeeding area can be requested to any staff or volunteer.
*Guest Interaction*
During Panels:
We kindly ask that attendees form a line at the microphone stands when posing questions. To accommodate as many inquiries as possible, please limit yourself to one question per person. In the event of inappropriate questions, we reserve the right to cut the microphone and proceed to the next individual in line. Please understand that not everyone may have the opportunity to ask a question, depending on the length of the queue.
Additionally, some guests may request no photography or video during their panels. Warnings will be provided for such events to avoid confusion. However, individuals found violating the "No Cameras or Video" rule during a panel will be asked to leave the panel and may face removal from the convention.
During Autograph/Photo Sessions:
We kindly request that attendees refrain from bringing gifts for guests, especially large items or anything containing food, due to potential allergies or sensitivities. Many guests travel with limited luggage space and may be unable to transport items back home. While small tokens may be accepted, we cannot guarantee acceptance on behalf of individual guests.
*Ticket Return, Refund & Exchange Policy*
All sales of Miracon tickets are considered final, and refunds will not be issued.
Guest appearances are subject to change or cancellation due to professional commitments. Unless otherwise stated, all guests are expected to attend for the duration of the event. Please refer to the Miracon website for the most up-to-date guest list prior to the convention. Refunds will not be provided in the event of guest cancellations.
Lost or stolen tickets or wristbands will not be refunded, nor will tickets be refunded if an individual is asked to leave the convention by staff or security.
Miracon ticket holders have the option to transfer or resell their tickets to others if they are unable to attend the convention. To transfer tickets, please contact miraconfestivalassociation@gmail.com to officially change the ticket holder's name.
*Photography & Video Policy*
When photographing or filming costumes, it's essential to obtain permission from the individual before capturing their image. Taking high or low angle shots, touching a person, or requesting sexual poses without prior consent is inappropriate and disrespectful.
Photography or recording of any kind is strictly prohibited in the Autograph/Photograph area, except when taking a selfie with a guest after paying the fee.
Recording may be prohibited at certain events. Individuals found recording at such events will be escorted out of the convention and barred from re-entry. In most cases, non-flash photography at panels and Q&A sessions is acceptable unless otherwise specified. Filming should be solely for personal use. Any use of photography, film, or audio for personal gain or profit is strictly prohibited.
*Props Policy*
Ensuring the safety of all convention attendees is a top priority for Miracon. While we encourage creativity in costume designs, it's crucial to prioritize the safety of both the public and fellow convention members.
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It's essential to remember that items posing potential harm to others are not permitted within the convention premises. Any such items brought for the costume contest will be securely stored until the contest begins.
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Functional replica firearms, such as airsoft guns, BB guns, and paintball guns, are allowed only during the costume contest, and must be unloaded and marked with an orange tip for security purposes. Similarly, live edge or metal-bladed props, even if not sharp, must be sheathed at all times to prevent accidents.
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Any items found to violate this policy will either need to be removed or will be confiscated. Additionally, all props brought into the convention, regardless of type, are subject to approval by Miracon staff, the Miramichi Eco Centre, and building security teams.
The following items are strictly prohibited from being brought into the convention:
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Firearms of any kind, including those without ammunition or with the firing bolt removed
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Functional projectile props, such as blow guns and crossbows
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Blunt items, including manufactured tools and sports sticks
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Chemical irritants, like mace and pepper spray
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Props that release aerosol, smoke, or vapors
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Explosives, including firecrackers and fireworks
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Mess-causing items, such as silly string and water balloons
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Any other weapon prohibited for public carry by Canadian law
Items such as foam blasters without projectiles, hard props made of materials like metal and fiberglass, and shields may be allowed but are subject to approval by convention staff.
Furthermore, any items purchased at the convention and removed from their packaging are treated the same as prop weapons brought into the convention and must adhere to these regulations. If a costume prop obstructs hallways or impedes movement, it's advisable to limit its use to the costume contest.
*Vendor Copyright Policy*
We've been receiving increasing feedback from both attendees and vendors regarding unlicensed merchandise. Miracon aims to provide a platform where artists can showcase their original creations, and where high-quality, licensed merchandise is available for purchase. Vendors are required to have all necessary permissions for the merchandise they sell, and Miracon will honor requests from copyright holders and original artists to remove any infringing items.
If vendors are instructed to remove a particular item and fail to do so, they will be asked to leave the event.
FOR ANY INQUIRINGS REGARDING ANY POLICIES, PLEASE CONTACT MIRACONFESTIVALASSOCIATION@GMAIL.COM