SOSF - Code of Conduct
Swing Out South Florida Code of Conduct
Swing Out South Florida's main concern is the happiness and safety of all of our patrons. Everyone should feel comfortable enough to share any concern they might have regarding another patron. Swing Out South Florida does not tolerate harassment of participants in any form. Event participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the current event (and all future events hosted by Swing Out South Florida.) without a refund. Please find our code of conduct, below:
• We value public arts’ spaces, and creating a nonjudgmental, safe space for all interested participants. Our main goal is creating a fun, diverse atmosphere for all individuals to be themselves.
• In order to do so, we value a list of expectations for our fellow participants:
1. This environment is for everyone regardless of gender/gender identity, race, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, religion, etc. We do not tolerate harassment of any kind. If you harass someone, you may be asked to leave; and/or dismissed from Swing Out South Florida for life if you do not respect the code of conduct.
2. In keeping with the above, don’t use misogynist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, racist or discriminatory language or gestures of any kind.
3. Don’t treat the dance hall like a pick-up joint. Our patrons do not represent a large pool of people for you to hit on. If you engage in this kind of behavior and make our patrons uncomfortable, we will take extreme pleasure in escorting you to the door.
4. Respect your surroundings, meaning, we dance in public areas where we do not have people cleaning up after us. Please keep your area clean by disposing of trash and taking all of your belongings with you upon departure.
5. Body care and cleanliness. We suggest everyone bring extra shirts. Be mindful and respectful of your dancing partner ensuring a comfortable union. We also suggest not wearing perfume or cologne. Too many smells may give people headaches, but deodorant will make everyone happy. Also, please be mindful of the shoes you wear on our dance floor.
6. It's okay to say “no” to another dancer when asked to dance. You should never feel pressured into dancing with someone, if you don’t want to. (Examples of things to say, you are tired, taking a break, or simply no thank you.)
7. Language - We are all adults here...except for the kids that come to our dance, so please be mindful and leave your curse words at the door. Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate for any social event, including dances, workshops, competitions, texting, emails, or any other form of social media, and are not to be used as a source of harassment. This includes non-consensual photography or recording.
8. No soliciting without approvals. We need to set boundaries for our business and create a sense of fairness among our dancers. This applies to soliciting political or religious agendas; social movements; other dance groups and events; petitions; lobbying; and advocacies. That said, we should be able to quickly and easily approve most things within reason.
9. By coming to Swing Out South Florida, you agree to never drive a car under the influence. We will gladly call you a cab or find you a ride home. Underage drinking at the dance will of course not be tolerated, and will result in immediate and permanent expulsion from the venue. Underage intoxication of any kind will have the same effect. Providing alcohol to a minor is illegal. If you do this, you will likewise be banned for life.
• Should you have any harassment-related complaints, please bring your concerns to any member of the swing dance staff. We will treat these issues with the strictest confidentiality. Your courage in coming forward can keep incidents from being repeated.
• Finally, if you are leaving late at night and would like a walk to your car, talk to any staff member and we’d be happy to arrange it for you. Chivalry is not dead.
Liability Waiver and Photo Release
By registering/attending Swing Out South Florida, you hereby agree to the following:
• You recognize that dancing is a physical activity and can be strenuous and may even cause physical injury, and you are fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. You declare yourself physically healthy and are safely capable of participating in this event and its classes, dances, training, and/or rehearsals.
• You agree to assume all responsibility for any injuries or damages which you may sustain while taking part in the event, and you knowingly and voluntarily waive any claims against Swing Out South Florida and its organizers, staff, employees, and independent contractors for any injuries, known or unknown, that you may sustain as a result of participating in the event.
• You acknowledge that Swing Out South Florida and its organizers, staff, employees, and independent contractors are not responsible for any loss or theft of your belongings.
• You authorize Swing Out South Florida to use any photos or videos of the event in which you may appear for promotional purposes, and waive any rights of compensation or ownership.
You have read and fully understand the contents of the above release and waiver of liability, and have explained it to any minors that you may accompany. You voluntarily agree to the terms and conditions listed above.
