Scope
This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees, instructors, staff, volunteers and judges, at every part of the event: workshops, parties, competitions and online channels.
1
Purpose & Values
D-TOWN SWING celebrates West Coast Swing — the dance, the music, its heritage and history. The event is open to dancers of all ages and promotes education, open-mindedness, playfulness and creativity. Our goal is to build and strengthen the West Coast Swing community. We are dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable experience for everyone, and we ask for the cooperation of all participants. We care.
2
Declaration of a Safe Space
D-TOWN SWING is dedicated to a safe and comfortable experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, ability, physical appearance, body size, race or religion (or lack thereof). We do not tolerate harassment in any form. Sexual language and imagery are not appropriate at any venue, including dances, workshops, lectures, competitions and online media.
3
Expected & Unacceptable Behavior
We expect everyone to: treat others with respect; obtain clear consent for physical contact; respect personal boundaries on and off the floor; follow staff instructions; and contribute to a positive, inclusive atmosphere. The following will not be tolerated: offensive verbal comments related to the categories above; sexual images or behavior in public spaces; deliberate intimidation, stalking or following; harassing photography or recording; sustained disruption of workshops or events; inappropriate physical contact; and unwelcome sexual attention. Anyone asked to stop harassing behavior must comply immediately.
4
Being a Good Attendee
Be respectful. It is okay to refuse a dance, and you do not need to give a reason — and it is okay to be refused. If someone says “no”, move on; if they say “no” repeatedly, stop asking. Do not give unsolicited advice on the floor or in class. Use all your senses to avoid collisions — every dancer is responsible for their own and their partner’s safety, and for awareness of those around them. Be respectful to staff even when frustrated. Look after yourself: sleep, hydrate, wash your hands, and take your medication if applicable.
5
How to Report
If you experience or witness anything that violates this Code — or if you simply feel unsafe — please tell us. You can:
approach any member of event staff (recognizable at the registration desk and in the gastronomy area);
contact the daily contact persons whose names and phone numbers are posted at the entrance doors and in the gastronomy area;
ask staff to reach the organizers for you.
You decide how much you want to share and which channel you use. You may report on behalf of someone else. There is no “too small” — if it bothered you, it matters.
6
What We Do With a Report — Action Plan
When you report something, staff will:
Listen and make sure you are safe right now. Immediate safety comes first (e.g. separating people, providing a quiet space, an escort, or contacting local law enforcement if you wish).
Note what happened, with your consent, including who, what, when and where.
Decide together with you on the best next step for your safety and wellbeing — nothing is escalated against your wishes unless someone’s safety requires it.
Act — see the consequences ladder in §7.
Follow up with you where appropriate.
7
Consequences
Depending on severity, and at the discretion of the event organizers, measures may include:
a verbal warning and a request to stop;
removal from a class, dance, party or competition;
expulsion from the event with no refund;
a ban from future D-TOWN SWING events;
involvement of local law enforcement where appropriate.
Participants who violate this Code may be sanctioned or expelled at the discretion of the organizers.
8
Confidentiality & No Retaliation
We handle reports as confidentially as the circumstances allow and share information only with those who need it to keep people safe. Reporting in good faith will never count against you. Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern is itself a violation of this Code.
9
Closing
Please contact someone if you need help.
Be safe and enjoy D-TOWN SWING!