Code of Conduct

Problematic Behaviors

Behaviors that go against our community standards include, but are not limited to:

• Persistent disruption of classes or events.
• Dismissive or dominating language (e.g. mansplaining, whitesplaining).
• Microaggressions or derogatory comments related to gender, sexual orientation, ability, body, age, ethnicity, religion, nationality, dance experience, or dance role.
• (Harassing photography or videos).
• Criminal harassment, intimidation, or threats.
• Any form of sexual harassment, unwanted sexual attention, inappropriate or non-consensual physical contact, or assault of any kind.

VLDA has zero tolerance for these behaviors.

(Please note: photos and videos may be taken at our events by VLDA photographers/videographers; let us know if you’d prefer not to be posted and we will respect that)

Consent and Dance Etiquette

Consent comes first. Asking someone to dance is an invitation, not an obligation. Everyone has the right to say yes or no at any time.

Accepting a dance is consent to dance within normal social dance limits. Moves outside that (e.g. dips, lifts, or tricks) require verbal consent.

If a partner asks you not to do something, respect it immediately.

Anyone can end a dance at any time, for any reason. Please honor this without judgment.

Communicate your own boundaries clearly—words are the best tool.

Respect and Courtesy

Our community thrives when we treat each other with dignity. Please:

• Be respectful to fellow dancers, organizers, and volunteers.
• Accept or decline dances with kindness, regardless of the reason.
• Be supportive of newer dancers, encouraging positive experiences on the dance floor.

Hygiene

We ask all participants to:

• Maintain personal hygiene (e.g. fresh breath, clean clothing, deodorant).
• Change shirts if they become very sweaty.
• Wash hands regularly.

Good hygiene ensures a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Volunteers, DJs, Artists, and Collaborators

Those working with VLDA are expected to:

• Follow the same code of conduct as participants.
• Never pressure anyone into a romantic, sexual, or intimate relationship.
• Avoid becoming so intoxicated that they cannot act responsibly.
• Refrain from any illegal or criminal activity while representing VLDA.

Violations may result in warnings or removal from events.

Reporting and Intervention

If you wish to report an incident, you can email VLDA directly at [email protected]. The earlier we know about an issue, the better we can address it.

If something happens during an event, please speak directly to a VLDA organizer (who will be clearly identified), or a volunteer if you cannot locate an organizer.

We respect your consent in deciding next steps. We will not share your identity or act on your report without your agreement, unless there is an imminent threat to safety. Possible responses may include:

• Speaking with the individual involved.
• Mediation (if appropriate and with your consent).
• Written behavioral agreements.
• Suspension from specific activities.
• Temporary or permanent bans from VLDA events.

In cases of serious or repeated violations, VLDA may suspend a person’s participation while reviewing the situation. Individuals accused will be given an opportunity to respond before final decisions are made.

Our Commitment

False accusations are extremely rare, but harmful behaviors can have lasting impact. VLDA will treat all reports seriously, with care and respect for the person affected, while also ensuring fairness in the process.

Together, we can keep the VLDA community safe, supportive, and welcoming for everyone.