Our Values

Boulder Swing Dance is a warm, supportive community, where people come to socialize, express themselves and show their love of music and movement. We are dedicated to making sure any dancer at our classes, social dances, or social events feels safe and accepted—regardless of race, gender, place of origin, citizenship status, age, religion, ability, physical appearance, size, sexual orientation, gender expression, or any other characteristic.

Code of Conduct

Harassment and other behavior that makes attendees feel unsafe or uncomfortable will not be tolerated. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, offensive verbal comments, sexually suggestive language, intimidation, bullying, mocking, non-consensual photography/recording, inappropriate physical contact, persistent unwanted romantic advances, and unwelcome sexual attention. Harassment does not require malicious intent.

Misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or racist language that insults, marginalizes, or denigrates others is not acceptable.

Inappropriate and dangerous social dancing behavior will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, forceful movements that could cause injury, sensual physical touch, dangerous floorcraft, and any form of aerials/air steps outside of performances and jam circles.

Attendees asked to stop any harassing or unsafe behavior are expected to comply immediately. We understand that people can make mistakes, but we expect those mistakes to be acknowledged and for that behavior to be changed. Boulder Swing Dance reserves the right to refuse service to, or revoke access to anyone we determine is threatening this safe, inclusive environment, as long as those reasons are not discriminatory in nature. Dancers with a history of unacceptable behavior in other scenes may be preemptively refused entry.

Participation in a Boulder Swing Dance class, social dance, or event implies acknowledgement of and agreement to these policies.

Social Dance Etiquette

    • Lindy Hop is an active dance in which you will be close to your partner. Please be respectful. Use deodorant to manage body odor, gum or mints for fresh breath, and towels or a change of shirt if you tend to sweat. (Keep in mind that perfumes, cologne and scented lotions can trigger severe respiratory reactions in some people.) Consider clothing that limits direct (potentially sweaty) skin contact with where your partner may place their hands.

    • People in any social community may choose to date one another, but this is not a pickup scene. Repeatedly asking someone out after they have declined is harassment. Sexual advances and/or manipulation of any kind are not tolerated. People are here to dance, not to hook up.

    • When asking others to dance, use your words and wait for verbal consent. Simply reaching out your hand or, worse, physically pulling someone onto the floor is not OK.

    • Anyone may ask anyone to dance, regardless of role or gender identity. Because many people dance different styles and dance both the lead and follow roles, it is considerate to be specific in your request. (e.x. “Would you like to follow a Lindy Hop dance?” “Would you like to dance Balboa? I prefer to lead.” “Want to dance Collegiate Shag? Would you prefer to lead or follow?”)

    • You have the right to refuse a dance for any reason. No explanation required. If you tell someone you will find them later, please mean it. It’s often seen as rude if you turn down a dance and then immediately ask someone else to dance during the same song, so it’s better to be direct, “I’m sorry, but I was going to dance with…” or just let them know that you’re sitting the song out.

    • If you are turned down for a dance, remember that dancing with someone is a privilege and not something you are entitled to. If someone has declined a dance with you more than once in a night, perhaps let them approach you the next time they're ready to dance.

    • Do not monopolize someone’s time at a dance. Dancing multiple songs with one person is totally fine, but be aware that they most likely have other people they would like to dance with as well.

    • Your partner may be uncomfortable with certain moves, holds, or positions, regardless of how commonplace they may be. Respect their decision to abstain.

    • Ask your partner before performing a dip or lift, especially with those you have not practiced with. Avoid inversions where someone’s head points towards the ground. 

    • With the exception of jam circles and performances, aerials are not allowed.

    • Be mindful of other couples on the social dance floor. On crowded floors, favor moves and variations you do well. Look where you’re going and where you’re sending your partner. Be prepared to redirect or change course to avoid collisions.

    • If you collide with another person, take a moment to assess any damage. Most often a simple, genuine “sorry,” is sufficient.

    • You may stop dancing with a partner for any reason, at any time, including mid-song.

    • Do not offer unsolicited corrections or dance advice, unless you feel your partner is putting you or others in danger. Then please let them know what it is they are doing that is harmful.

Together, we can create a space where we can share our passion for the dance, express ourselves creatively, meet new people, and forge friendships and relationships that may last a lifetime.

This code of conduct was informed, in part, by similar policies at Camp Hollywood, Swing It Dance School, Lindy Focus, Full Swing Dance School, Swungover, Swing Nights, Swingout OKC, Swingin’ Denver, the Boulder Dance Coalition, and CMDance. Do you think this document is missing something important? Please let us know.

Let Us Know

If you feel or witness something uncomfortable or unsafe, please talk to a member of the Boulder Swing staff or report it through this form. We take all complaints seriously and are committed to resolving issues to the greatest extent possible. You may request that your information be kept anonymous. You can also send us a message at boulderlindyhop@gmail.com, or use the form below.