At The Blues Harbour, we are dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe atmosphere for everyone, regardless of skin color, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, physical appearance, dance experience or role. We welcome a diverse group of people and ideas. However, we don’t tolerate the intolerant. Therefore all attendees, instructors, crew, and volunteers are required to comply with the following code of conduct.
Organizers will enforce this code throughout the event. We are expecting cooperation from all participants to help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everybody.
We take care of each other and the space we share
If you see someone being treated in an offensive way by another participant, please contact the crew as soon as possible. We do not accept harassment among the participants. If you harass someone, you will have to leave the festival. Further measures can be a police report.
If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please immediately contact a member of our crew. We are aware that it is not easy to speak up, but it will help us create a safer environment for all of us. <3
Be nice
Act inclusive and nice to everyone, no matter their race, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, physical appearance, dance experience or role.
Respect your partner and people around you and yourself
Remember that boundaries may differ from person to person. Keep good faith and trust in communication. If you aren’t sure about something, ask. If something doesn’t feel right – speak up. Our crew will be available in case you need support. If you accidently crossed someone’s boundaries – apologize. If someone is inappropriately touching you, bring it to their attention or the attention of our crew.
Ask about roles
Don’t assume other dancer’s dance role. Make it a habit to ask before a dance which role someone wants to have in the dance or if they want to switch roles during the dance. A person’s role preference may change over the course of a night, or even over the course of a dance. To ensure that you help to create a safe and friendly environment we recommend that you have an open communication with your dance partner.
Personal boundaries are important
Connect with partners the way it feels comfortable for both of you. If your partner uses a hurtful connection, please let them know – they may not be aware of that. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation please contact an organizer or volunteer.
Ask for a second dance
If you want to do one more dance, say ”Shall we have another?”
You can always refuse
It’s ok to say no to a dance or a second dance – just do it politely. You don’t need to give an explanation.
Be okay with someone saying no
Everybody has the right to say no to a dance, without the need for an explanation. If you say no – do it politely. If someone refuses to dance with you, don’t take it personally – there are lots of possible reasons. Like the need for a break, hurt ankle, disliked song, just not feeling it and many more.
Thank you Big City Blues for inspiration and for in parts being the blueprint for this code of conduct. Other inspiration has of course been WCJ:s code of conduct as well as QLF:s code of conduct.