Code of Conduct & Dancer Etiquette Guide

Dancing is a fun, social activity that welcomes everyone. In order to foster a safe and inclusive space, Kelowna Salsa Community has crafted a set of guidelines that all participants are asked to review and abide by for the benefit of the entire community. We have used a number of sources to compile this guide; if you have questions, feel free to ask us, or to consult the resources noted at the end. *

1. Everyone is Welcome!
   It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, we’re all entitled to have some fun! Come to learn and come to grow. Make new friends or enjoy the show. Be polite and show you care. Introduce yourself and dance to share.
   
2. Respect Each Other
   “R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Find out what it means to me!” – Aretha Franklin
   
   Dance is all about being friendly and respectful. As a member of the community, your behaviour is a part of that. Treat others as you would want to be treated and use respect. Harassment of any kind, including homophobic, racist, sexist, aggressive or abusive language or gestures will not be tolerated. These also include unwelcome approaches, inappropriate contact, or comments about physical appearance.
   
3. Dancing is your choice
   Feel free to ask anyone to dance, it doesn’t matter who. Whom you dance with and how much you dance are totally up to you. Ask anybody for a dance regardless of their level, gender, age, or ability. In fact, we encourage you to dance with as many different people as possible.
   
4. It’s OK to say ‘no’
   You may pass on any advance to dance, no pressure! You are never obligated to say ‘yes’ to a dance so feel free to respectfully decline. If you are tired and simply want a rest, be honest and offer to dance again another time. Just remember, you never have to offer a reason when you say ‘no’.
   
5. Watch your personal Hygiene
   We all want to avoid the ones who stink, so take a shower and brush your teeth! Other things that can help:
   • If you are sweaty, bring a change of shirt (or more).
   • Apply deodorant/antiperspirant, bring a towel, and wash your hands often.
   • If you can’t brush your teeth, chew gum, pop a mint, or give mouthwash a swish.
   • If you are ever in doubt, ask a friend what they think.
     
6. Stay within your partners’ boundaries
   Boundaries are set by either individual. Please respect your partner’s space and body always. If you ever feel uncomfortable, you may stop the dance at ANYTIME. People talk, and you don’t want to be the creepy or inappropriate lead or follow that no one wants to dance with!
   
7. Be aware, and stay safe
   “Only you can prevent dance floor injuries” – Smokey the Dance Bear
   
   Social dance floors vary in size, crowd density, and dance styles. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep a lookout for your partner. Proper floor-craft can make even the most crowded floor seem well organized. Understand what moves are appropriate for the dance floor and the partner you are dancing with. For example, lifts, dips, and multiple spins may not be appropriate for someone you don’t know well, someone who is not at an advanced level dancer, or if the floor is too crowded.
   
8. Leave the teaching to the teachers
   Providing tips on the dance floor might seem harmless, but it can really remove the fun of social dancing. You might think you are helping, but you could just as easily be teaching incorrect technique or making someone feel bad about their skills. Instead, simply dance at the level of your partner and if they ask for advice, direct them to a class or an instructor.
   
9. Be gracious… but not too apologetic
   There is no need to apologize for every mistake made while leading or following. In fact, mistakes are how fun and creative things happen. Over-apologizing removes both you and your partner from the mood of the dance. Save apologies for accidentally bumping into someone else or if you’ve actually done something to injure your partner, such as stepping on their toes. Always thank your partner at the end of a dance before exiting the social floor. Hugs may not always be welcome at the end of a dance so show some sensitivity.
   
10. Have fun!
    At the end of the day, we all came to play, so put on a smile and enjoy! No matter what goes on in our personal lives, social dancing is where we come to escape. Have fun and dance the night away!

*References & Sources:

1. D2 Dance Studio Code of Conduct: https://danceystudios.com/code-of-conduct/
2. Elements of Dance Etiquette: https://personal.utdallas.edu/~aria/dance/etiquette.html#Asking
3. Lindyworks Code of Conduct: https://lindyworks.ca/details/code-of-conduct/