Code of Conduct

 

OUR CODE OF CONDUCT:

Houston Swing Dance Society (HSDS), the parent organization of Lindyfest, is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of anyone in any form. We want to ensure the classroom and ballroom are environments where people feel free from coercion, bigotry, discrimination, and bullying.

  • HSDS and its events are family-friendly. Anyone found to be overly intoxicated or under the influence of any substance will be asked to leave*.

  • Anyone found carrying firearms or any other weapons will be asked to leave*.

  • HSDS and its events are not to be used as a pick-up venue. Anyone found making unsolicited advances will be asked to leave*.

  • Sexual harassment, physical abuse/assault, psychological abuse, or any other form of abusive behavior will not be tolerated. Anyone found to exhibit this behavior will be asked to leave which may lead to temporary or permanent expulsion*.

  • Misogynic, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or any other form of discriminatory language will not be tolerated. Anyone found to exhibit this language will be asked to leave which may lead to temporary or permanent expulsion*.

  • Anyone found to exhibit boisterous, loud "fighting" words, abusive behavior, or reckless dancing will be given a warning which may lead to temporary expulsion or permanent expulsion*.

  • Unless you are asked for feedback, do not offer unsolicited advice to other people.

  • Other than in a jam circle (with a trusted partner) competitions, or performances- aerials are not allowed on the social dance floor.

  • HSDS is an inclusive organization, in which each member is as valuable as others. We ask that everyone respectfully share the space and treat others with dignity.

 * = Upon uncooperative behavior, this may escalate to involving the security officer on premises and could lead to arrest, if necessary

Organizers will enforce this code throughout the event. We are expecting cooperation from all participants to help ensure a safe environment for everybody.

OUR DANCER CONCIERGE TEAM:

If you have a question, or concern, or need to talk to someone, please contact us immediately. We will treat these issues with the strictest confidence. Here is how to get in touch with us:

  • Go to someone with the dancer concierge staff

    • There are concierge team members in every classroom and all activity spaces

  • Go to the registration desk

  • Go to any teacher or staff member

  • Email safespacelindyfest@hsds.org

TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WEEKEND:

  • You’ll be dancing with many other people, so you will want to shower throughout the weekend and possibly bring a change of clothes to classes or dances. You may want to chew gum, bring breath mints, and wear deodorant.

  • Wash your hands frequently!

  • Take breaks throughout the weekend. There are always chairs available in classrooms and near the dance floor.

  • Please do not offer unsolicited advice to your fellow dancers either in class or on the social dance floor.

  • Please use your full range of senses while dancing to avoid accidental collisions and injuries. It is every dancer’s responsibility to be aware of their movement as well as those around them.