Guidelines & Policies

1. Inappropriate Cosplay

The following costumes or elements are not permitted.

Offensive Content

Cosplay may not include:

• Offensive language or imagery
• Intentionally inflammatory messages
• Political messaging promoting a specific ideology (except Christ-like values)
• Racist, misogynistic, discriminatory, or hateful content
• Homophobic hate speech or designs
• Alcohol or drug references

Inappropriate Clothing

Outfits should remain family-friendly. Not allowed:

• Deep-plunge or very low-cut tops
• Shorts or skirts significantly above the knees
• Excessive exposed skin
• Visible tattoos containing offensive language or imagery
• Bare feet

Safety Concerns

Costumes should not create hazards. Not permitted:

• Excessively torn or loose costumes that drag on the ground
• Sharp or pointed costume pieces
• Anything that may accidentally injure another attendee

Violent or Frightening Themes

• Excessive blood or gore
• Extremely scary monster or killer-themed costumes

Demons & Witchcraft

Because Koinonia Con is hosted by Redwood Chapel, cosplays involving demons, witchcraft, or related themes are strictly prohibited, as they conflict with the church’s beliefs and practices.

2. Appropriate Cosplay

Most cosplay is welcome! Examples include:

• Casual cosplay (character T-shirts, themed outfits)
• Full-body superhero suits (Spider-Man, Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, etc.)
• Armor, robes, tunics, Jedi costumes, cloaks, and fantasy gowns
• Cosplays modified for modesty (leggings, undershirts, capes, etc.)

The goal is simply to keep costumes family-friendly and respectful of the church venue.

3. Weapons Policy

No cosplay weapons are allowed. This includes all prop weapons.

Anyone bringing prohibited weapons may be denied entry, or be asked to remove the weapon before entering. Guest safety is the highest priority.

4. Cosplay Is Not Consent

Help create a welcoming environment for everyone.

Respect Personal Space

Do not touch a cosplayer without permission.

No Harassment

Harassment of any kind is prohibited. This includes:

• Unwanted comments about someone’s appearance
• Negative remarks about costumes
• Behavior that makes another attendee uncomfortable

If someone appears uncomfortable, respectfully end the interaction.

Photography & Recording

Always ask before taking photos, videos, or recordings. If the cosplayer is a minor, permission should also be obtained from their parent or guardian. If the cosplayer requests social media credit, please respect that request.

5. Policy Violations

If church staff or volunteers notice inappropriate behavior or costumes:

• The concern will be reported to a designated DeoWorks team member.
• The attendee will be asked to correct or remove the inappropriate item.
• If they refuse, the Redwood Chapel Safety Team may require them to leave.
• If necessary, the local Sheriff’s Department may be contacted.

6. Event Policies & Liability

By attending Koinonia Con, attendees acknowledge and agree that:

• Admission may be denied or revoked without refund for policy violations.
• The organizers are not responsible for lost or damaged personal belongings.
• Attendees are responsible for damages caused by their own negligence.

Attendees also agree to the event’s Release of Liability, which includes:

• Waiver of claims for injury, illness, death, or property damage (except where prohibited by law).
• Agreement to indemnify the organizers where applicable.
• Acceptance that California law governs any legal disputes.

7. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes related to Koinonia Con must follow this process:

Step 1 — Mediation

Disputes must first go through confidential mediation using an agreed Christian mediation organization.

Step 2 — Arbitration

If mediation is unsuccessful, disputes will proceed to binding arbitration under California law. All legal proceedings must take place in Alameda County, California.

8. Photography & Media Release

By attending Koinonia Con, attendees (and parents/guardians of minors) grant permission for photography, audio recording, and video recording.

Images and recordings may be used by DeoWorks, Inc. and Redwood Chapel for advertising, fundraising, promotional materials, and print and digital publications. No additional notice, approval, or compensation will be provided. Attendees also waive any rights to royalties or future compensation arising from the use of these materials.