The issue of predation is a significant concern in community play spaces where people meet to explore their sexual desires. Predators may take advantage of unsuspecting individuals, causing harm to them physically, emotionally, and mentally. To prevent such incidents from occurring, many communities have established community agreements that ensure everyone's safety and comfort. Community agreements are written guidelines outlining acceptable behavior within the space. They help create an environment where people can feel safe and comfortable exploring their sexual interests while ensuring that no one gets exploited. These agreements establish clear boundaries, which include rules on consent, transparency, and enforcement mechanisms for violations. Consensual, transparent interactions ensure that everyone is aware of what they agree to before engaging in any activity.
One example of a community agreement is the Safer Sex Policy developed at the San Francisco Erotic Art and Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes sexual health education and safer sex practices. This policy requires participants to communicate openly about their expectations regarding intimacy and sexual contact before engaging in any interaction. It also mandates the use of condoms during all physical activities and provides information on contraception options. The policy further prohibits non-consensual touching or any form of coercion. Violating these policies attracts severe consequences such as immediate expulsion from the group.
Community agreements also require transparency between members. For instance, Kink Aware Professionals (KAP), a platform for kinky people to connect with professionals who understand their needs, has a set of rules that promote transparency. Members must disclose their personal information, including their real names, occupation, and contact details, to facilitate accountability. In addition, KAP imposes strict penalties on those who fail to adhere to its rules, which may lead to deactivation or banning from the community.
Finally, community agreements help prevent predators by establishing penalties for violations. If someone breaches the rules, other members can report them to the authorities, leading to legal action against them. At Kink Awareness Network International (KANI), violators may be reported to law enforcement agencies, and if found guilty, they face charges. This approach helps deter individuals who might want to take advantage of vulnerable members.