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Code of Conduct

We are dedicated to fostering a welcoming, safe, inclusive, and harassment-free community for all participants, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, dance skill level, or dance role. 

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  1. Smoking, firearms or weapons of any kind, noticeable intoxication, and high-risk dance moves (including aerials) are strictly prohibited at all events unless explicitly sanctioned.

  2. Harassment in any form is strictly prohibited. Participants engaging in harassing behaviors may be asked to leave immediately without a refund, banned from future events, or subject to other actions at the organizers’ discretion as outlined in the Policies and Procedures below. Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to:

    • Offensive or hurtful verbal comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, appearance, body size, race, religion, dance skills, or dance roles.

    • Sustained disruption of classes, events, or online community spaces, including through social media. 

    • Inappropriate or unwanted physical contact, romantic/sexual advances, or repeated unwanted requests for personal interactions.

    • Unwelcome or intrusive attention, photography, recording, intimidation, stalking, or any behavior that causes participants to feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

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Participants are encouraged to report any concerning behavior to event organizers. 

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Policies and Procedures

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  1. All complaints will be maintained in strict confidence, except when disclosure is required by law or to avert an immediate threat to personal safety. Organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including, but not limited to the following progression:

    • Discussing the incident in confidence with involved parties and creating an action plan to prevent further incidents and or asking offenders to leave for the day.

    • Documenting the incident in a written report.

    • Issuing a verbal and or written warning to the offender.

    • A temporary or permanent expulsion from the Santa Fe Swing Dance Society classes or events without a refund.

    • Contacting law enforcement only if organizers reasonably believe there is an immediate risk to participant safety or if legally obligated to do so.

  2. In cases of serious misconduct or harassment, organizers reserve the right to confidentially disclose factual details regarding the incident and resulting disciplinary actions (such as warnings or expulsions) to other dance organizations.

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If you have any concerns, you have options:

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Dance Etiquette Guide

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1.  Ask Everyone & Respect Roles:

​​​Ask everyone to dance and ask their preferred role (lead, follow, switch). Thank your partner after the song!

2.  “No” Is Normal:

Anyone can decline a dance for any reason—don’t take it personally, and feel free to say no yourself.

3.   Beginners Welcome:

All skill levels mix; advanced dancers love helping new folks have fun – so ask them to dance! (Advanced Dancers are encouraged to dance with Everyone!)

4.   Role Flexibility:

People lead, follow, switch, and even dance with no defined roles (live in the void!). Ask what role someone would like at the beginning of the dance and don’t be afraid to propose an alternative!

5.   Boundaries First:

End a dance immediately if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, and stop if your partner asks. 

6.   No Surprise Coaching:

Don’t give dance tips unless they’re requested—and then keep them kind and brief.

7.   Personal Space:

Check that your partner is comfortable with close-embrace or other close connections and don’t be afraid to assert a boundary if you are not!

8.   Floorcraft:

Be mindful on the floor, both partners can help avoid collisions! If you hit someone, make sure they’re OK before you move on!

9.   Don’t be Creepy:

Dance is a fun and wonderful social activity that welcomes participants with many different intentions. Do not make anyone regret choosing to participate in the community with unwelcome attention, romantic or otherwise. 

10.   Hygiene:

Please maintain good personal hygiene — extra shirts can be nice — dancing can be a sweaty business!  Some people are sensitive to strong smells, please be mindful, wear deodorant and avoid cologne and perfumes. 

11.   Alcohol:

While Odd Fellows and many of our events do not permit alcohol or inebriation, some dances happen at venues that sell alcohol. If consuming alcohol, please do so responsibly. Excessive intoxication is inappropriate and unsafe on the dance floor.

12.   Smart Shoes:

Smooth slidey (leather, felt, suede) shoes protect your knees and the floor. Avoid grippy soles; spiked heels, mud, or bare feet.

13.   Speak Up:

If you see discomfort or danger, alert an organizer (contact info on the code-of-conduct).

14.   Have Fun!

That’s the whole point.

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