Community Code of Conduct

Personal Boundaries

• ​​I respect my fellow dancers’ physical and social boundaries regardless of how they communicate and recognize they may be unique for each partnership. I understand that physical closeness in dance should not be interpreted as romantic or sexual interest. I will not engage in inappropriate touching, make suggestive comments, or give unwelcome attention.

Consent

• As an individual in charge of my own self I have the right to say no to anyone who offers to dance with me. I equally agree that it is any other individual’s right to decline a dance with me. No is a complete sentence. However, discrimination based on sex, gender, age, race, or ethnicity will not be tolerated.

Inclusion

• As a participating community member, I understand the importance of dancing with dancers of all levels. Every human who shows up to our social dances deserves the opportunity to dance. I agree to connect and include everyone on and off the dance floor.

Neutrality

• The roles of lead and follow in West Coast Swing are gender neutral. As such, it is my right to dance with either role and whomever I wish as long as there is consent. I understand that anyone can choose to lead or follow.

Feedback

• I will not criticize or correct others’ dancing unless they ask for feedback. When asked for feedback, you are not required to provide any. Teaching is reserved for lessons and practice. I will not stop a dance to teach a partner a move they do not know.

•  If I see or experience a safety concern, I will speak up and inform a community organizer. It is appropriate to let a partner know if something hurts and put boundaries on your own dancing. It is not appropriate to give feedback on preferences (i.e “I don’t like how you dance” is NOT OKAY vs. “You pulling my arm like that hurts a bit, could you pull a little less?” IS OKAY). If you are not comfortable giving safety feedback, a community organizer can do that for you.

Dips and Tricks

• I will be mindful of my partner and their individual physical limitations and preferences. I understand that agreeing to a dance does not mean agreeing to any weight supported moves. I must ask for consent before trying any dips or tricks

Privacy

• I respect others' right to privacy and refrain from taking photos and videos of other participants unless all partners have expressly consented to do so. 

• I have the right to let community organizers know that I prefer to not be in any photos published for advertisements for the dance.