The SCKR is dedicated to the study and practice of Kyudo as a Budo (martial way - a spiritual and ethical discipline [Do]) within which aesthetic, moral, and ethical values take precedence over practical considerations.
The ideals and ethics set forth in the Budo Charter (Nippon Budō Kyōgikai, 1987; English translation 2004) and the Kyudo Kyohon (All Nippon Kyudo Federation, revised edition, 1971) establish the principles of conduct for members of the SCKR. The seven tenets of bushido (rectitude [moral character], courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty) further characterize the traits exemplary of SCKR members’ behavior.
SCKR firmly believes that those who choose to study Kyudo under the direction of SCKR and its instructors are individuals of the highest moral and ethical character.
SCKR understands that new students, without any background in martial arts training, may not be aware of dojo specific etiquette or behaviors. It is the responsibility of the instructor to teach new students the expectations of the dojo and SCKR.
SCKR’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws expressly prohibit any discrimination of individuals based on age, sex, race, religious belief, or sexual orientation. Additionally, SCKR maintains a zero tolerance for abuse of any kind or in any form (verbal, written, psychological, or physical). Any infractions shall be addressed and rectified immediately.
SCKR acknowledges that in today’s society, misinterpretations, misunderstandings, and discord occur. This policy is for those occasions, where situations occur among members, for which clarification or resolution is needed to maintain the harmony of the dojo and to give all parties an opportunity for a fair and unbiased review to equitably resolve these difficult issues.
This policy is not intended to produce a list of acceptable behaviors prescribed by SCKR, as SCKR fully believes that all members of SCKR understand the expectations of martial artists studying Kyudo as Budo and any list, by its very nature, is not all-encompassing.
Every member of SCKR is expected to read and understand the policies and procedures explained in this document. Ignorance is no excuse. Ignorance will not be considered reasonable defense for poor judgment or inappropriate behavior. Questions regarding acceptable behavior or interpretation of any policies in this document should be directed to the SCKR Chief Officer before any action which might be questionable occurs.
SCKR acknowledges that neither respect nor ethics can be legislated, as the first is earned and the second is learned within the context of one’s society. Both concepts, however, are understood within the Budo community.
The success of the SCKR is built upon the trust and confidence SCKR members share with each other and the local, national, and international communities within which SCKR interacts. SCKR continues to maintain its high standing because of a strong foundation of honesty and integrity during all interactions, private and public, and by reaching its goals through honorable conduct, developing the highest quality of students, and sustaining an environment that is positive, safe, and free from all types of discrimination of abusive, offensive, or harassing behavior.