Django Code of Conduct: Structure & Philosophy
Deep dive into the Django Code of Conduct, one of the earliest and most influential codes of conduct in the Python ecosystem. Covers its ground-rules approach and influence.
Detailed Explanation
Django Code of Conduct
The Django Code of Conduct is one of the most influential codes of conduct in the Python and web development ecosystems. Created by the Django Software Foundation, it has served as a model for many other communities.
Ground Rules Approach
Unlike the Contributor Covenant's rights-based approach, the Django Code of Conduct frames expectations as "ground rules" that community members are asked to follow. This framing positions the code as practical guidelines rather than a legal document.
Five Core Principles
The Django CoC is built around five key behaviors:
- Be friendly and patient — Assumes good intentions while maintaining standards
- Be welcoming — Explicitly commits to supporting people of all backgrounds
- Be considerate — Recognizes interdependence in collaborative work
- Be respectful — Acknowledges that disagreement does not justify poor behavior
- Be careful in words — Emphasizes professional communication standards
Influence on Other Communities
The Django CoC has directly influenced the codes of conduct adopted by:
- Python Software Foundation (PEP 8015)
- PyPI and pip
- Many PyCon conferences worldwide
- Flask and Jinja communities
Enforcement Model
Django uses a dedicated Code of Conduct Committee (currently 5-7 members) that handles all reports. This committee model has been widely adopted because it:
- Distributes the emotional labor of enforcement
- Provides multiple perspectives on reports
- Reduces bias in decision-making
- Ensures continuity even as individual maintainers change
Adaptation Tips
When using the Django template, consider adding:
- Specific examples relevant to your technology domain
- References to your community's communication channels
- Clear timelines for enforcement responses
Use Case
Python ecosystem projects, web framework communities, or any community that values a ground-rules approach with emphasis on professional communication and committee-based enforcement.