Community Guidelines
Our Community Standards
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) is dedicated to fostering unity, preserving Yoruba cultural heritage, and promoting integration into Finnish society. These guidelines ensure a respectful, inclusive, and culturally vibrant community for all members. Compliance creates a positive and supportive environment.
Motto:
English: Give us the fortitude to endure the things which cannot be changed, the courage to change the things which should be changed, and the wisdom to know one from the other.
Yoruba: Fun wa ni agbara lati farada ohun ti a ko le yipada, igboya lati yi ohun ti o yẹ ki o yipada pada, ati ọgbọn lati mọ iyatọ laarin awọn mejeeji.
1. Foster Respect and Cultural Sensitivity
Treat all members with dignity, addressing elders appropriately in line with Yoruba cultural values. Avoid harassment, discrimination, hate speech, or actions that create an unwelcoming environment. Engage in discussions with empathy, professionalism, and respect for diverse backgrounds.
2. Promote Yoruba Language and Culture
Use Yoruba alongside English in communications to preserve our cultural heritage. Share knowledge, skills, and ideas that advance AYDF’s goals, such as cultural events or educational programs. Encourage constructive feedback and collaboration while avoiding disruptive behaviors (e.g., off-topic posts).
3. Uphold Registration and Profile Integrity
Provide accurate information during registration, including full name, email, WhatsApp number for verification, and location in Finland (if applicable). Verify your email within 48 hours using the confirmation link sent to your Inbox or Spam/Junk folder. Request a new link via the Resend Confirmation page if expired. Maintain an authentic profile, avoiding false claims about skills, certifications, or identity.
4. Protect Privacy and Reputation
Safeguard your account credentials and respect others’ privacy. Do not share personal or sensitive information (e.g., contact details, financial data) without explicit consent. Refrain from misrepresenting or disparaging AYDF, its members, or activities in external platforms (e.g., non-AYDF groups or social media). Report security or reputation concerns via the Help & Support page.
5. Adhere to Content Standards
Post content that is relevant, appropriate, and aligned with AYDF’s goals. Avoid misinformation, obscene or offensive material, unauthorized advertisements (allowed only on admin-designated days), or solicitations unrelated to community activities. Verify information before sharing to prevent spreading fake news.
6. Engage Responsibly in Digital Communications
Use AYDF platforms (e.g., forums, WhatsApp) respectfully, adhering to these Group Rules:
- Avoid political or religious debates to maintain peace and unity.
- Limit forwarded messages and voice notes (maximum one voice note per day per member).
- Obtain admin approval for event notices unrelated to AYDF activities.
- Respect admin decisions; repeated violations (more than twice) may result in removal from digital platforms.
Respond promptly to admin verification requests via WhatsApp or email, checking Spam/Junk folders. Avoid unsolicited messages or disruptive communication practices.
7. Membership Re-Admission Policy
Members who voluntarily exit or are removed for guideline violations are ineligible for re-admission for at least three months. Re-admission requires a written request, review by administrators, and approval by a majority vote of the leadership. Exceptions may be made in special cases with recommendations from two respected members and leadership approval, prioritizing community unity.
8. Enforcement and Consequences
Violations are reviewed by administrators on a case-by-case basis. Depending on severity, consequences include:
- Warning: Issued for minor infractions with guidance to correct behavior.
- Temporary Suspension: Applied for repeated or moderate violations, restricting access for a defined period.
- Permanent Removal: Enforced for severe or persistent violations, including misrepresenting AYDF externally, resulting in membership termination.
Members may appeal decisions within 7 days via the Help & Support page. Administrators will review appeals and respond promptly.
Questions or Concerns?
For clarification, to report violations, or to address concerns, contact administrators via the Help & Support page. Check your Spam/Junk folder for responses. For urgent issues, admins may be reached via WhatsApp (details in confirmation emails or support communications).