Why Kindness Isn’t Optional at True North
When I started True North Pin Up, I didn’t just want to host events or print a magazine—I wanted to create a movement.
A space where every person—regardless of size, style, background, or experience level—could feel seen, celebrated, and supported. A place where red lipstick meets real community. Where glitter and grit go hand in hand.
But lately, we’ve had to face some hard truths.
After World of Wheels, several concerns were brought to my attention—feelings of exclusion, whispers behind closed doors, selective behavior, and side-shoots that left others feeling invisible. I believe most of this wasn’t rooted in malice—but the impact was real. And the pain was felt.
So I want to be absolutely clear:
Bullying, gossip, exclusion, and disrespect have no place at True North.
This isn’t just about “drama.” This is about protecting the safe space we’ve worked so hard to build. The community we all say we want.
What We All Agreed To
When you registered for a True North Pin Up event, you signed off on a detailed Anti-Bullying & Anti-Abuse Policy.
Here’s what that means in plain language:
No gossip. No cliques. No tearing others down.
No “vibe” tests that exclude people from photos or conversations.
No online side-eye, vague-posting, or passive-aggressive commentary.
No abuse, in any form—verbal, emotional, or social.
No retaliation when someone speaks up about harm.
And yes, this includes photographers and behind-the-scenes players, too. Everyone plays a role in the energy we bring to this space.
We’re Not Here to Recreate High School
We’re here to rewrite it—with kindness, courage, and community as our core values.
This is why we’re tightening expectations, starting with:
Recognizing Miss Friend Photography as our official, paid photographer for events she is part of
Requiring pre-approval for any additional photographers or media, including a Code of Conduct
Enforcing our zero tolerance policy for exclusionary or harmful behavior—online or in person
Increased communications through both the event Facebook Group AND via email so nothing and no one is missed
What Happens If the Policy Is Violated?
There may be consequences if someone is found to have broken the code, whether through bullying, exclusion, or online disrespect. That could mean:
Disqualification from contests
Removal from events
Or being asked not to participate in future experiences
I don’t take that lightly, but I do take it seriously.
Because your emotional safety matters.
Your experience matters.
You matter.
A Final Word From My Heart
This past week has been heavy, but it’s also been healing. I’ve received so many messages of support, love, and encouragement from those of you who believe in what True North stands for.
That tells me this is still worth fighting for.
So let’s keep showing up for each other. Let’s hold ourselves to a higher standard. And let’s keep building a space that heals, empowers, and uplifts.
The pin-up community should be a place of radical joy and radical kindness.
Let’s be the reason someone feels brave enough to show up.
With love and fierce integrity,
Kiki Lou
Need to Revisit the Full Policy?
You can read or download our complete Anti-Bullying & Anti-Abuse Policy here:
