Code of Conduct
We believe that every person at our events has the right to feel comfortable and safe at all times. To try our hardest to make sure that happens we have a code of conduct.
Why​ ​do​ ​you​ ​need​ a​ code​ of​ conduct?
A code of conduct is there to make sure everyone attending the event is on the same page. We all have different experiences, beliefs and ideas about what’s acceptable, and so we want to make sure that we have a shared understanding of what’s okay. It means that we have something to use as a reference point in the event that we need to talk to somebody about their behaviour. We hope it also sends out a message to those who might experience some of these things that we’ve got their back.
The Code of Conduct
The following applies to everyone involved with our events: dancers, volunteers, teachers, visiting teachers and musicians.
We welcome everyone regardless of gender/gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, religion, age, employment status, dance ability or dance role.
Dance roles aren’t gender specific
We encourage all dancers to have the choice of following, leading or both. We recommend asking someone which role they would like to dance when you ask them. Try not to assume someone’s dance role based on their appearance.
Mind Your Words
Do not use misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or racist language or behaviour. Respect the culture and experiences of other people.
Respect people's personal space
Partner dancing can involve close contact with others and we must respect each others’ personal boundaries. Ask for permission before touching someone, or dancing with them in close embrace. If someone tells you that you are making them feel uncomfortable, or they seem uncomfortable dancing with you, stop what you’re doing. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, you have the right to tell them to stop.
Be OK with people saying no
If you ask someone to dance and they say “No thank you,” be cool with that; they don’t have to give a reason. Reply, “Hey, no worries – find me later if you change your mind!” and move on to ask someone else. No one is obliged to dance with you. You can ask anyone to dance, regardless of your/their gender, age or role.
You can say no. If someone asks you to dance and you don’t want to, say “No thank you” and leave it at that. You don’t have to give a reason; you don’t owe anyone your time. If someone asks you to dance and you do want to, say “YES please!”
Play safe
Aerials are fun to do but should be saved for jam circles and sparse dance floors out of respect for the other dancers on the floor.
Prior consent and clear communication is an absolute must.
Just because someone was okay with something once, doesn’t mean they always will be in the future.
A social dance is not a place to practice airsteps.
Don’t give unsolicited feedback
Unless they specifically ask for feedback, don’t correct someone’s dancing on the social dance floor. Parties are for partying!
The exception to this is if someone is dancing in a way which is hurting you or making you feel uncomfortable.
Take it easy on the booze
If you’re at one of our events where alcohol can be consumed, be sure your consumption stays safe and comfortable for both you and others. If your state gives us cause for concern, we may ask you to leave. If you provide alcohol to an under 18 on our watch we will definitely ask you to leave.
Did we mention we’ve got your back?
If we have reason to be concerned about your behaviour, we will talk about it with you and may give you a warning. If your behaviour continues after a warning, or if you harass or cause anyone to feel unsafe, you may be asked to leave. We can ban you from future events and, in discussion with the complainant, we may be obliged to report you to the police.
We will always do our best to support and protect whoever reports an incident.
You can speak to Simon or Jess privately about anything that has bothered you. Alternatively, you can email via our contact form on the contact page.
We will listen to you non-judgmentally and take you seriously. We will keep everything you tell us confidential, unless you say otherwise (or if you tell us that someone is at risk of significant harm, by law, we may have to pass that information on).
This code of conduct is adapted from Edinburgh Lindy Exchange and Highland Swing‘s code of conduct, and we thank them for their hard work in creating this code.