Our Guide to Keeping Conduct Fun
Sugarfoot Stomp aims to create fun, inclusive, positive and safe spaces for our community. Our classes, workshops and events are primarily learning environments, where we use the power of humour, openness and encouragement to grow and develop both our dancing and ourselves as human beings.
To support these goals, we have a Code of Conduct that outlines the acceptable behaviours of all who attend Sugarfoot Stomp events.
By attending any activity run by Sugarfoot Stomp, you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct.
Code of Conduct
Safety is a priority
Please ensure you use full access to your senses and spatial awareness to protect yourself, your dance partner and others in the community - on and off the dance floor. That includes refraining from performing aerials on the social dance floor.
In the same sentiment, if you feel unsafe at any point in any capacity, you are at full liberty to remove yourself from that situation without explanation. We also trust you to know your own limits and not to push yourself beyond them.
If your actions have accidentally caused someone discomfort or embarrassment, please apologise.
Classes, events and workshops are social activities
Swing dancing is a social activity where you get to meet and connect with many different people from different backgrounds and experiences.
While social dancing is a great way to meet new people, this is not a ‘pick-up’ joint. Please keep your interactions friendly and respectful.
This space is for everyone
No matter your gender identity, heritage, sexual orientation, age, physical appearance, ability or religion, (this is not a definitive list), you are fully welcome here and can be expected to be treated as such. We will not tolerate any harassment, discrimination, bullying or intimidatory behaviours of any kind from anyone.
You are welcome to say ‘no’
Accepting to dance or interact with someone is a voluntary act - not a requirement. At no point do you need to justify your actions for not accepting an invitation to dance or engage with someone. Additionally, if someone does not take you up on your offer that is their business, not yours - be gracious and move on.
Keep communication open and respectful
If something doesn’t feel right or you feel uncomfortable dancing with a partner - it’s OK to let them know. Remember that everyone is learning so be kind and supportive with your feedback. Keep in mind that as a partnered dance, both people contribute to connection and how the dance ‘feels’.
Do not give unsolicited advice on someone else’s dancing unless explicitly asked to. It is not your place to critique another’s dancing ability.
Sugarfoot Stomp’s ultimate goal is for the community to feel comfortable and safe by creating positive environments. If any current financial Sugarfoot Stomp Member or attendee believes that there has been a code of conduct violation at any time, feel free to speak to a community volunteer (for events) or Code of Conduct Committee member. You can also fill out the form below. Members and attendees can choose to remain anonymous.
If a current financial Sugarfoot Stomp Member or attendee has felt uncomfortable or unsafe as a result of the actions of anyone (including students, facilitators, musicians) at the classes, workshops or events, please let a Code of Conduct Committee member know as soon as possible.
The Code of Conduct Committee will ensure that privacy is upheld and follow the processes outlined in the Sugarfoot Stomp Constitution (Section 9: Disputes Resolution Rule 52: Code of Conduct pg 36), Sugarfoot Stomp Safety Policy, and Code of Conduct Committee. The Code of Conduct Committee will consider all concerns. Only current financial Sugarfoot Stomp Members have a right of reply in accordance with their Constitutional rights.
Courage in Sugarfoot Stomp Members and attendees coming forward can keep incidents from being repeated.