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← Jul 2005

THE BLACK VEIL
02:56 Aug 09 2005
Times Read: 1,035

The Black Veil is a code of ethics written for the Strigoi Vii movement and Sanguinarium community and has been adopted by many individuals, households and organizations within the vampyre/vampire community. Originally it was written in 1997 by Father Sebastian of House Sahjaza as a code of conduct for patrons of the vampyre haven Long Black Veil in New York City.

The original edition of the Black Veil, now referred to as V.01 was inspired by Renaissance Fair etiquette and from the codes of conduct in the BDSM / fetish scene. Undoubtably with the influence of Vampire: the Masquerade as the only set of "terms" being used in the community at the time, there was some similarities. However over the years as the vampyre community evolved those influences were worked out.

It was then amended by Lady Melanie in 1998 and 1999. The Black Veil has been since revised and evolved by Michelle Belanger of House Kheperu with input and suggestions by the greater vampyre/vampire subculture. In March 2000 COVICA, a council of collected elders from different traditions revised the Black Veil 1.0. It was then at the BV gained popularity and was translated in to Portuguese, German and Spanish. Although not indented it was also distributed as the 13 Rules of the Community.

Now in late 2002 Michelle Belanger, with the input of Father Sebastian and others, presents the BV 2.0 as a philosophy and tradition of ethics, not rules. This code is voluntary and is meant only to set an example for, not dictate or govern the scene. This updated and simplified version of the Black Veil is NOT a set of laws or rules and is no longer the 13 rules of the community, but was written as an example set of ethics and ideas. It is your individual or groups choice to adopt the Black Veil. This document may be printed out for personal or non-commercial or community use, only if proper credit and no alternations to the original text are made. Amendments for each household, court or community made be freely added as long as the original test is not altered. Please respect those who have brought the Veil to you.

I. DISCRETION - Respect yourself and present yourself so that others also respect you. Take care in who you reveal yourself to. Explain what you are, not to shock, but to teach and to inform. Do not flaunt what you are, and know that whether you want them to or not, your actions will reflect upon the rest of the community. Share your nature only with those with the wisdom to understand and accept it, and learn to recognize these people.

II. DIVERSITY - Among us, there are many different practices and many points of view. No single one of us has all the answers to who and what we are. Respect each person's individual choices and beliefs. Learn about them and share what you know. Our diversity is our strength, and we should not allow misunderstanding to weaken our community. Find the path that is right for you and uphold this freedom for others.

III. CONTROL - Do not allow your darkness to consume you. You are more than just your hunger, and you can exercise conscious control. Do not be reckless. Always act with a mind toward safety. Never feed because you think this makes you powerful; feed because this is what you must do. Be true to your nature, but never use it as an excuse to endanger those around you.

IV. ELDERS - Give respect to those who have earned it. Anyone can claim a title, but a true leader will prove him or herself through dedication, hard work, and great deeds. Even so, leaders should be guides and not dictators. Look to them as examples, but always decide for yourself what you must do. Respect the person, not the position, and understand that your choices are always your own.

V. BEHAVIOR - Know that there are repercussions to every action, and that you alone are responsible for your decisions. Educate yourself about risky behaviours, then always act with wisdom and common sense. Do not allow others to abuse you, but also, do not selfishly abuse. Respect the rights of others and treat them as you would be treated.

VI. DONORS - Feeding should occur between consenting adults. Allow donors to make an informed decision before they give of themselves to you. Do not take rapaciously from others, but seek to have an exchange that is pleasant and beneficial for all. Respect the life that you feed upon and do not abuse those who provide for you.

VII. COMMUNITY - Reach out to others in your community. Exchange ideas, information, and support. Be hospitable to others, and appreciate hospitality when it is extended to you. Do not engage in illegal activity, for this can endanger us all. Seek to nurture our community and support all those who do the same.