Why a Code of Ethics?

As members of a free society, we are expected to abide by the laws of the land if we wish to enjoy the benefits of our citizenship. Every professional or social group has ethical expectations placed upon their members. Like all aspects of life in a free society, everything is optional but there are always consequences to our actions. If individuals do not live up to the moral and ethical expectations of their country or organization, they forfeit their right to full membership.

It is important that we recognize the two thousand year history and tradition of Kung Fu and the symbolic meaning of the rank of Black Belt. As Black belts we must accept all the responsibilities which the rank requires including the responsibility of conduct, the spirit of which is outlined by the three main Chinese philosophies of Kung Fu: Confucism, Taoism, and Buddhism.

We must understand that the scope of our accomplishments and the quality of our character are affected by those who achieved this rank before us and those who will achieve it after us. We must also recognize that our actions from this point on will also define and affect those who came before and those who shall come after, so our intentions must be honest and pure while reflecting the character of a Silent River Kung Fu Black Belt.

As we accepted our Black belt we accepted the responsibility of being a teacher, a leader and a role model and agreed to abide by the Silent River Kung Fu Black Belt Code of Ethics and to conduct ourselves accordingly.

Silent River Kung Fu Code of Ethics

All Black Belts of Silent River Kung Fu must promise to:

• Hold paramount the well being of Silent River Kung Fu, their students, their art,

  their community, and its citizens.

• Set an example by approaching their art with passion, vigor, and vitality.

• Undertake and accept responsibility only for tasks in for which they are qualified

  and in which they believe.

• Uphold the principle of appropriate and adequate compensation for the

  performance of their skill.

• Act with integrity and honour while maintaining respect for all living beings.

• Maintain proficiency and competence in the art to advance their body of

  knowledge and skill.

• Conduct themselves with discipline and respect at all times while displaying a

  determination for truth and their own personal convictions.

• Give credit where it is due and accept, as well as give, honest and fair comment.

• Report to the Silent River Kung Fu Master Instructor any illegal or unethical

  conduct or practices by other members or others.

• Promote public knowledge and appreciation of the art of Kung Fu and protect

  Silent River Kung Fu from misrepresentation and misunderstanding.

• Maintain an appreciation for their skill and loyalty to their mentors.

• Accept responsibility for their actions and mistakes, learn from the past, and

  prepare for the future.