Respectful Conduct Policies

Visitor Code of Conduct

The National Constitution Center (NCC) brings together people of all ages and perspectives to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. The NCC is a place for everyone to engage in civil dialogue, share diverse viewpoints, and learn about their place in the story of “We the People.” Creating a welcoming environment is a shared responsibility of the NCC community. We expect every person in our museum to treat each other with respect and to help maintain a safe environment. The NCC prohibits harassment or discrimination of any kind. We strive to provide a fun, fulfilling, positive learning experience for all.

By visiting the National Constitution Center, you are agreeing to comply with the following requirements for visitor conduct.

The following is prohibited in the museum:

  • Possession of a weapon of any kind. The prohibition applies to all visitors, including those with firearm permits, but not to law enforcement personnel on duty who are authorized to carry firearms.
  • Displaying or carrying any placard, sign, or banner
  • Destroying, defacing, damaging, or removing any NCC property, including all artifacts and exhibits
  • Climbing upon any part of the building or exhibit spaces
  • Loitering, sleeping, or participating in unpermitted assemblies
  • Creating any hazard to persons or things
  • Performing or threatening to perform any obscene, violent, or abusive act and/or language
  • Using, possessing, or selling illegal drugs
  • Taking photographs for advertising or any other commercial purpose without prior written approval of the NCC
  • Soliciting for commercial or charitable purposes or distributing advertisements, pamphlets, handbills, and flyers
  • Smoking or carrying lighted cigarettes/electronic cigarettes, cigars, or pipes into the building, or having a fire of any kind on the premises is prohibited
  • Bringing pets to the museum. Service animals are welcome.

Reporting: If you are a visitor and you witness or experience any of the behaviors above, we strongly encourage reporting it to the museum manager by finding a staff member and asking to speak to the manager. If you do not immediately see a staff member, please proceed to the information desk in the main lobby of the first floor, where a staff member will be there to assist you. The National Constitution Center reserves the right to refuse or revoke the admission or membership of any visitor or group whom it believes violates these guidelines. This can include future admission to the museum and is at the sole discretion of the NCC.

Program and Event Code of Conduct

In an effort to provide an enjoyable and safe environment for all guests and employees at National Constitution Center public programs and special events, all guests and employees in attendance are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects others and does not bully, endanger, discriminate against, or harass anyone partaking in or attending NCC programs or events. The NCC does not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form.

The National Constitution Center reserves the right to remove and/or refuse entry to anyone who fails to abide by the NCC’s rules and policies. This includes, but is not limited to, anyone who disrupts or threatens to disrupt a program or other guests’ ability to experience the program, or harasses another guest or NCC employee.

All determinations are at the sole discretion of the NCC. A breach of the Code of Conduct may result in suspension from future America’s Town Hall programs, membership, or other NCC programs or events. Individuals expelled due to violating the Code of Conduct will not be eligible for a refund or other consolation.

Reporting: If you or someone else is being discriminated against or harassed at an NCC program or event, please report it as soon as possible. You can make a report in person to NCC staff, online, or by phone. Reporting may also be anonymous. Onsite and during business hours at the NCC, please see the information desk or any NCC staff member for assistance. Outside of business hours, please contact [email protected]. If you need immediate emergency assistance, please contact 911.

This Code of Conduct applies to all NCC events, including events hosted at the NCC, NCC-sponsored events hosted offsite, and online programs. 

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