Code of Conduct

We are all responsible for creating a safe environment for self-expression at classes and events. This includes promoting habits which improve our community (green light), spreading awareness of less appropriate behaviors that are common warning signs (yellow light), and immediately reporting unsafe or dangerous actions (red light).

Green Light: Promoting the following habits will improve our dance community.

• Invest in getting to know other dancers.

• Share information about other public dance classes and events.

• Support other dancers when they teach or perform, Pay dancers for their labor whenever you can!

• Ask for permission to take photos and videos.

• Speak up when you see something inappropriate.

• Complain early and often about small things that make you feel uncomfortable (before they become big things)

• At social dances, ask if your partner wants to lead/follow/switch - don’t make assumptions based on appearance.

• At social dances, try to partner with someone new at each event! This helps new dancers feel welcomed.

Yellow Light: Spread awareness and reduce these less appropriate behaviors.

• Do not use social dance events as speed dating or focus on dance as an opportunity to meet people for romantic relationships.

• Do not leave the dance floor alone with someone you just met. If you are feeling unsafe to leave the venue alone, Amanda will arrange for an escort.

• Do not offer unsolicited advice to other students. Do not teach on the social dance floor or hustle private lessons.

• Do not take excessive photos or set up a tripod to record a video, especially not for professional use. Dancers should be paid to appear in your portfolio.

• Do not attempt Aerial Tricks outside of a performance. Limit use of wrist locks, pretzels, and other moves that can easily cause injury.

Red Light: Immediately report unsafe or dangerous actions, including...

• Anything criminal, anything that causes physical injury or property damage.

• Racist, misogynist, homophobic, transphobic, or ableist statements

• Personal Harassment, Stalking, or Bullying

• Violation of an established interpersonal boundary.

Procedures:

Dancers are encouraged to resolve interpersonal issues through independent direct communication when possible. When you choose to bring an issue to Amanda you can expect the following:

• All discussion will be private and confidential (unless you request an advocate to join you)

• Amanda will maintain written documentation of the conversation. You may have a copy.

• You will be asked how you would like the situation to be handled. The following are typical outcomes:

  1. Monitoring of the accused by Amanda and any other staff (watched but not approached)

  2. A generic public warning announcement / reminder about the specific problematic behavior

  3. A private warning and discussion with the accused, recorded.

  4. A mediated discussion with the accused, recorded.

  5. Temporary or Permanent removal of the accused from Revolution Modern Dance classes and events

  6. Help finding victims’ resources and local advocates.

  7. Assistance with reporting the incident to local law enforcement.

  8. The accusation may be shared with other regional dance organizations.

• Limitations:

  • If Amanda is the one you have a problem with, please contact the venue directly to share your concerns.

  • Amanda is only one person with a day job and limited training in supporting victims, I can’t be your entire support system during a crisis.

  • The lists above are not exhaustive. If there is something you would like to see added please let me know! I can always do better.