The Avery Center Client Content-Sharing Policy

It is an important part of The Avery Center's work and culture that the organization makes a conscious effort to accurately represent the population it serves. We use imagery and story-telling to highlight evidence-based information and discourage sensationalism. Additionally, it is equally vital that images and stories of clients served are shared in ways that avoid re-exploitation.

This content-sharing policy was developed through a collaborative, survivor- and trauma-informed approached which consisted of meeting with existing organization clients to discuss how they would feel comfortable with having their content shared through the organization’s networks. First, an open dialogue was encouraged to generate a list of key points of importance existing clients desired to see included in such a policy. Next, the list was split into two sections: this written policy statement, and the following content-sharing release form. Both documents were then reviewed again by the same existing clients, changes were made based on this added input, and finalized documents were submitted to the board of directors for final approval and acceptance into organization policy.

The key area of discussion amongst current clients are centered around the need for complete transparency and usage disclosure regarding the entire process of content creation and sharing. For this reason, it is The Avery Center's policy to be mindful and educate individuals who are interested in sharing content to discuss the following topics:

1. Individuals under the age of 18 shall NOT, for any reason, have their key physical identifiers (face, tattoos, etc.) shared through photography or video, nor shall they, for any reason, have their full legal name displayed on any content. Individuals under the age of 18 shall be permitted, with legal guardian consent, to share content such as artwork, poetry, or lived experience statements, which shall be accompanied by a pseudonym.
2. Any and all content sharing of a client’s likeness or intellectual property shall be examined for any potential aspects that may be or be interpreted as coercive or that there are “strings attached” to their consent. All content sharing should be at the individual’s personal choice and shall not impact their ability to participate in or receive services from the organization.
3. Full disclosure includes an open discussion around how the content will be shared, who might view it, the potential positive and negative impact the individual might experience, how this content can benefit the organization or other clients, and the length of time and venues the content will be shared.
4. Multiple identity-sharing or -hiding options shall be offered whenever possible. This may include but most certainly is not limited to: options of photography poses to conceal identity, specifically selecting the venues through which the content can be shared or distributed, exploring various options in regard to name/pseudonym, and default images/statements that allow for personalized options to give those who are not able or comfortable in sharing personal content to take part in specific activities.
5. In line with avoiding re-exploitation, any and all compensation for the use of content shall be included so participants fully understand what, if any, monetary or in-kind compensation is available for the project. All participants creating content for the same project shall be offered the same level of compensation.
6. Due to the various educational levels of different participants, clear, straightforward language shall be used for all content release forms to ensure the signor is able to fully comprehend what they are giving consent for.
7. Consent disclosures shall be included on any social media posts, and this content-sharing policy shall be accessible on the organization’s website.