Frequently Asked Questions: Access, Rentals, and Safer Spaces at the Winnipeg Film Group
The Winnipeg Film Group (WFG) is a not-for-profit, artist-run centre committed to supporting independent filmmaking and fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful creative environment.
As an organization that serves the public while supporting artists, we recognize the complex dynamics of working within arts communities today. The WFG welcomes the changing tide among public-facing organizations that are establishing clear boundaries against harassment, disrespectful behaviour, professional slander and misrepresentation.
This shift reflects a broader recognition that those who provide public-facing labour deserve safe and respectful workplaces, and that community participation requires mutual accountability.
It is important to recognize these forms of harm have real consequences for everyone. Upholding mutual respect and truthfulness is essential for an artist-run centre like the WFG to operate safely and equitably and allows us to fulfil funding agreements that now require recipients to commit to a safe and respectful workplace free from harassment and discrimination.
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding member access and shared responsibilities within the WFG community.
1. Who can access WFG equipment and facilities?
WFG Production equipment and facilities are available to General Members who have purchased the Production Add-On, are in good standing, and whose accounts are up to date. Our full rental policy is here: https://www.winnipegfilmgroup.com/production/rentals/rentals-policy/
Members must also demonstrate sufficient knowledge and experience with the equipment they wish to use. If additional instruction is needed, our Production staff can arrange training sessions (at $25/hr for members, $50/hr for non-members).
The Dave Barber Cinematheque can be rented by the general public. More info can be found here: https://davebarbercinematheque.com/advertising-rentals/theatre-rentals/
2. What defines an “independent” film or video project?
An independent project is artistically driven rather than market-driven, meaning the director or creator maintains full creative and editorial control and is the primary rights holder of the work.
Independent works are motivated by creativity, experimentation, and innovation and not commercial marketability. WFG’s mandate prioritizes these projects over commercial productions.
3. Can I use WFG gear for commercial or corporate projects?
Generally, no. WFG equipment is subsidized to support artistic production. However, in rare cases where similar gear isn’t available for rent elsewhere in Winnipeg, commercial producers may rent at commercial rates upon approval, if-and-only-if it does not impact member rentals or productions. Proof of full-value insurance coverage must be provided, and payment is required in advance.
4. What happens if equipment is damaged, lost, or stolen during my rental?
Members are responsible for the care, custody, and return of all equipment.
If gear is lost or damaged, members must cover insurance deductibles plus a 10% administrative fee on replacement or repair costs (to a maximum of $1,000).
Members renting large production packages are strongly encouraged to secure individual production insurance (WFG can provide referrals to HUB Insurance).
5. Can my membership or rental privileges be suspended or revoked?
Yes. Under WFG’s Rental Policy, Safer Spaces Policy, and By-laws (Article 8.03), membership or rental access may be suspended or revoked if a member, including organizational members:
- Violates the Safer Spaces Policy (harassment, discrimination, threats, bullying, or harmful conduct);
- Disrespects staff, other members, or Artspace tenants;
- Misuses equipment or facilities;
- Fails to pay outstanding invoices or repeatedly disregards booking protocols.
Members subject to suspension or termination will receive written notice and the opportunity to respond with any appeals.
6. What does the Safer Spaces Policy mean for members?
By entering WFG spaces or participating in any WFG program, individuals and organizations agree to uphold a respectful and inclusive environment.
This includes:
- Acting with empathy and respect;
- Respecting personal and cultural boundaries;
- Honouring identities, experiences, and pronouns;
- Refraining from violence, harassment, or discriminatory language or behaviour.
The Safer Spaces Policy extends to in-person, online, and written communications. Failure to uphold these expectations may result in removal from WFG spaces or suspension of membership.
7. What if I experience or witness unsafe or discriminatory behaviour at WFG?
If you experience or witness any form of harassment, discrimination, or violation of WFG’s Safer Spaces Policy, please contact admin@winnipegfilmgroup.com.
Please note: As an artist-run centre, the WFG does not provide mediation or conflict resolution services. Our capacity and mandate focus on ensuring safety and accountability within our programs and spaces, rather than facilitating interpersonal dispute resolution. Members seeking formal mediation or counselling are encouraged to contact professional or community-based services.
9. How does WFG respond to threats, misrepresentation, or defamatory conduct?
The WFG will not engage with individuals or organizations who issue threats in any form whether they are verbal, written, digital (including social media or email), implied, or through third-party intimidation.
We also do not tolerate professional misrepresentation, defamatory behaviour, including slander or libel that undermines the reputation or safety of staff, artists, or community partners.
Where such behaviour occurs, WFG may take immediate and appropriate action, including but not limited to:
- Refusing or cancelling rentals, bookings, or collaborations;
- Suspending or revoking membership and access to WFG/DBC spaces;
- Issuing no-contact directives or removing individuals from events;
- Referring incidents to legal counsel or relevant authorities, where warranted.
The WFG’s first responsibility is to protect the safety, integrity, and dignity of its community. We do not engage with threatening, defamatory, or bad-faith communications, and will act decisively to prevent harm to staff and artists.
10. How does WFG balance artistic freedom with community accountability?
As an artist-run organization, WFG recognizes that artistic freedom thrives only in safe, accountable environments.
Our mandate is to advance the art of independent cinema while fostering a space where all members can create without fear of harm or discrimination.
When conflicts arise, WFG follows an educational approach whenever possible, prioritizing learning and dialogue while maintaining clear boundaries against harassment, threats, or professional misconduct.