Announcement from the East Kingdom Chancellor Minor
Greetings to the Populace of the East, from Leonete D’Angely, East Kingdom Chancellor Minor.
Throughout the day at Birka, I was pleased to see families of all ages and types enjoying all that the SCA has to offer, from youth combat to shopping as a family, from attending family specific classes or relaxing in the Family Lounge to participating in the dancing and fashion shows. The youth of the East attended Marshalls meetings and taught classes alongside the adults, and ferociously guarded both the Royal Room and Her Majesty Thyra, protecting her from dangers big and small. There was some mention of some very dangerous pineapple candies. This event showed just how much we truly are a family friendly society dedicated to providing a safe and enriching environment for those of all ages.
Unfortunately, an incident occurred in the hallway outside of court that must be addressed. An adult grabbed a child by the arms, shook him, and yelled at him for being loud and running around while court occurred. This was witnessed by multiple adults, including the closely supervising parents. Unless you are saving the child from imminent harm (such as a child bolting onto a list field,) do not touch a child withot permission of the child’s parent. If a child is disturbing an event, politely asking them to quiet down, or asking them where their adult is and politely addressing the issue with the adult would be the appropriate actions to take. If that action does not lead to a solution, the next step would be to speak to the event steward, local, or kingdom seneschal for them to intervene. No one deserves to feel unsafe at an event, no matter what age they are. If you have any questions or concerns about this or any other matter involving youths and families in the East, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Baroness Leonete D’Angely
East Kingdom Chancellor Minor
Addendum from the Kingdom Seneschal
People should remember that touching anyone without their consent (except where safety is concerned) is considered Simple Assault in most US jurisdictions even if it does no physical harm. Touching anyone in an inappropriate manner can lead to expulsion from an event and possibly arrest. Touching in an aggressive and intentionally harmful way, such as grabbing or shaking, is contrary to the SCA’s goal of a chivalrous and honorable Society and will not be tolerated at events.
Dueña Mercedes Vera de Calafia
Seneschal, East Kingdom