Code of Conduct

Welcome to Swing Era Steps! We’re so excited to have you join us for our events. When you attend one of our events, we expect you to follow our Safer Spaces Policy and general community behavior guidelines.

If you experience or witness any behavior that is inappropriate or makes someone uncomfortable, please bring it to our attention! You can:

  1. Fill out this form to report an incident.
  2. Email info@swingerasteps.com.
  3. Contact Rachel Kreher (Swing Era Steps leadership) directly if you are more comfortable talking in person.

Swing Era Steps strives to create a space that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone and free from discrimination, bigotry, harassment, bullying, and coercion. By attending any Swing Era Steps event, you agree to abide by this policy.

I agree that:

I will respect EVERYONE at the event regardless of their age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, politics, physical appearance, dance skill, lifestyle, weight, and ability. I will honor the humanity and dignity of everyone. This includes using each attendee’s correct pronouns.

I understand that Swing Era Steps doesn’t tolerate harassment of any kind at events or on the social media platforms.

  • Harassment includes offensive verbal comments, use of sexual images or behavior in public places, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, photographing or recording someone without their consent, sustained disruption of events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention. Advocating for or encouraging any unacceptable behavior will also be considered harassment.

I understand that it is not the job of Swing Era Steps to create an environment where no one will ever get on my nerves.

If I experience or witness any behavior that’s inappropriate or makes someone feel uncomfortable, I will bring it to an organizer’s attention immediately.

I will respect the physical and personal boundaries of fellow event attendees. I recognize that while swing dances involve physical connection, every attendee has different boundaries on and off the dance floor. I will always ask permission from others before touching, hugging, dipping, participating in a close embrace connection, or other seemingly innocent forms of physical contact. I know that only a verbal “yes” means “yes.”

I realize that my #1 responsibility during any dance is to make sure that my partner, myself, and those around me are safe and comfortable. I will do my best to make sure that my dancing does not cause anyone else injury or discomfort.

I understand that this policy does not and cannot outline every type of acceptable or unacceptable behavior. In the end, I will use common sense, treat others how they would like to be treated, and listen to Swing Era Steps leadership. If someone raises an issue with my behavior, I will listen gracefully, be willing to learn, and accept the consequences of my actions.

We take all concerns seriously at Swing Era Steps, and we are always available to hear and act on your reports or complaints. We are committed to resolving issues to the greatest extent possible.

  • When you bring an issue to our attention (using any of the methods above), here’s what you can expect:
  • We will keep your report confidential (unless we feel someone is in immediate danger).
  • We will have an initial conversation away from other attendees or using Zoom/email/messaging per your comfort level.
  • We will ask how you would like the situation to be handled.
  • We will determine next steps in consultation with you.
  • We will notify you when the issue has been handled and resolved.
  • Some next steps may include the reported person being: 
  • Monitored, but not approached, to keep an eye on them for further issues.
  • Spoken to directly about their behavior and asked to stop.
  • Removed from the event without a refund, temporarily banned, or permanently banned from future events.

Creating a safe and fun environment is a collective effort, and we need your help! If you witness something that goes against this policy or the guidelines below, we encourage you to speak up in the moment if you feel safe doing so. This could mean checking in with the person affected, setting a boundary, or making it clear that harmful behavior isn’t welcome. Your voice helps shape a culture where respect and accountability are the norm.

guide to being a great Swing Era Steps Event Attendee

We understand that trying something new, like learning how to dance, might be challenging and out of your comfort zone. We created this guide to help you know what behavior is appropriate in this space. We hope you grow to love this dance as much as we do, and that we can keep Swing Era Steps events a safe and welcoming space for all!

If you see someone not following one or multiple of our behavior guidelines, you can use any of the reporting options at the top of this document to notify us. Once an issue is brought to our attention, we might a) keep an eye on them for further issues, or b) have a conversation with them about appropriate behavior at Swing Era Steps events.

When I attend a Swing Era Steps event, I agree that:

I will prioritize building genuine relationships. I understand that attendees of Swing Era Steps events have different reasons for attending, and that their reasons might be different from mine.

Here are examples of what building genuine relationships looks like:

  • I engage with other attendees with empathy and compassion.
  • I attempt to understand where others are coming from when they say something I don’t agree with.
  • I will be open to building friendships in this community, and I will prioritize friendships before attempting to pursue romantic relationships.

I will use a verbal ask or the ASL dancing gesture to ask people to dance, approach people from the front as much as possible, and wait for a “yes” to my ask before heading to or remaining on the dance floor.

I will not assume dance roles (leader, follower or ambi/switch dancer) based on physicality or identifying features. Instead I will ask which role they prefer, which I also understand might change.

I will celebrate the diversity of skills and styles in this community. I will ask new dancers, experienced dancers, and dancers I don’t know to dance.

I recognize that Swing Era Steps is an environment for the celebration, practice and development of Swing Era dances and music. I understand that other styles of dance come with a different set of partnering agreements and aesthetics that may not be appropriate for Swing Era Steps events.

I understand that other people are not obligated to do things I may want to do. This includes not dancing, not doing a specific move while dancing, and non-dancing activities. I will examine my internal biases and not decline dances specifically for mean or judgmental reasons.

  • It’s okay to say “no” to a dance or any activity without offering an explanation.
  • It’s okay if someone says “no” to you. Celebrate people taking care of themselves. There are many cool and completely legitimate reasons to decline a dance with someone.
  • Enthusiastic consent is the goal! When in doubt, ask.
  • If someone tells you to stop, STOP.

I recognize that each venue has a different policy on alcohol. I will adhere to those policies.

  • Anyone who is visibly intoxicated and at risk of hurting others will be asking to leave the space regardless of venue policy.

I will not perform aerials/air steps on the social dance floor regardless of my skill level and comfort with them, unless in a jam, performance, or competition setting. I will not lift someone off the ground without their express consent.

If I’m sick or showing potential symptoms of illness, I will stay home! If I’ve had contact with someone who is sick or am unsure, I will wear a mask during Swing Era Steps events to protect others in the venue. I will be conscious of washing my hands and using hand sanitizer regularly!

I realize that practicing good hygiene is important to help my dance partners have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. I will keep my clothes, mouth, and body clean and low-odor when I am dancing. I understand that everyone has different standards of hygiene, so when in doubt I’ll change my shirt, grab a breath mint, or otherwise freshen myself up.

I understand that fragranced products such as heavily scented lotion, perfume, and cologne can trigger migraines and affect people’s ability to participate. I will refrain from wearing these products out of respect for others.

I will honor my body’s needs and protect my health. I will take a break to rest, drink water, get a snack, or sit and observe class when I need to. I understand that I can modify any class moves or exercises to make them comfortable for me and that my class instructors will support that decision.

  • If you are injured, you are welcome to still dance per your comfort and inform others of your injury.
  • If someone expresses an injury or asks for modifications, please respect that and comply.
  • If your injury prevents you from dancing comfortably, you are still welcome to sit and observe class.

If my partner is causing me some kind of physical or psychological discomfort, I will tell them because it’s disrespectful to me, my partner, and all the other dancers if I let this behavior continue. I will stop the dance, politely and constructively mention my discomfort, and, if I feel comfortable doing so, offer a possible solution.

If my partner mentions that I am causing them discomfort, I will not be offended or defensive. In fact, I will be glad they are helping to make me more fun and safe to dance with.

I understand that generally, instructors are responsible for giving feedback during class. I will never critique someone’s dancing or give dance advice at a social dance or during a class unless:

  • My partner explicitly asked for feedback during this dance.
  • My partner is causing me some kind of physical or psychological discomfort.
  • Critique is an expected part of the class we are in, as directed by an instructor. Even then, my critique will be about growth and delivered compassionately.
  • I will give feedback that was asked for respectfully and leave further feedback or instruction to the instructors or leadership present at the event.

During classes, I will be open to learning from instructors and classmates. I understand that I am able to learn from everyone in class by dancing with them and being in the collaborative class space together. I understand that if I have more experience than others in class, it doesn’t mean I give them feedback or act like I know more than them.

When I register for a class, I will be honest about whether I meet the prerequisites for a class. I know I can always ask one of the instructors or Swing Era Steps leadership if I’m unsure.

Help Us Improve! Do you think this document is missing something important? Please let us know.

Liability Waiver

In consideration for being allowed to participate in Swing Era Steps classes and events,  I release from liability and waive my right to sue Swing Era Steps LLC, the host venue and their employees, officers, partners, staff, volunteers, independent contractors and/or agents from any and all claims, including claims of negligence resulting in physical or psychological injury, illness (including death) or economic loss which I or any minors I sign up and/or accompany may suffer or which may result from participation in, travel to or from, or any events incidental to the classes and events.

I or the minors I sign up and/or accompany me are voluntarily participating in the Swing Era Steps event.  I or the minors I sign up and/or accompany me understand that there are risks associated with participating in the Swing Era Steps event such as physical and/or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability, death, economic loss or theft of belongings.  These outcomes may arise from my own or other’s actions, inactions, or negligence or from the condition of the Swing Era Steps event location or facilities. Nonetheless, I or the minors I sign up and/or accompany assume all risks of my/their participation in Swing Era Steps classes whether known or unknown to me, including travel to and from Swing Era Steps classes or any events incidental to Swing Era Steps classes.

I and any minors I sign up and/or accompany me to Swing Era Steps classes agree to hold Swing Era Steps LLC, the venue and their employees, officers, partners, staff, volunteers, independent contractors and/or agents harmless from any and all claims, loss or damage to my personal property, liabilities and costs, including attorney’s fees, that might occur as a result of my participation in Swing Era Steps classes, including travel to and from, and any events incidental to the Swing Era Steps classes.  If Swing Era Steps, the venue and their employees, officers, partners, staff, volunteers, independent contractors and/or agents incur any of these types of expenses I agree to reimburse the party who incurred such expense.

I represent and warrant that I and any minors I sign up and/or accompany, are physically fit and have no medical condition that would prevent full participation in the dance classes, dance parties, or any event or program.  If I or any minors I sign up and/or accompany need medical treatment as a result of participation in, travel to or from, or any events incidental to Swing Era Steps classes, I agree to be financially responsible for any costs incurred as a result of such treatment.  I am aware that Swing Era Steps, the venue and their employees, officers, partners, staff, volunteers, independent contractors and/or agents do not provide health insurance and that I should carry my own health insurance for myself or any minors I sign up and/or accompany.

If I am signing up a minor for Swing Era Steps classes, I am the parent or legal guardian of the Participant and I allow the Participant to participate in Swing Era Steps classes.  I understand that I am responsible for the obligations and acts of the Participant as described in this document and agree to be bound by the terms of this document.

I grant Swing Era Steps, the venue and any hired or volunteer photographers and/or videographers permission to photograph and/or record video of my participation or the participation of any minors I sign up and/or accompany me in Swing Era Steps classes and events.  I grant Swing Era Steps, the venue and any hired or volunteer photographers and/or videographers permission to use such photos and/or videos in any form including but not limited to future publications, social media, web content, illustration, copyright purposes, digital or printed materials.  I further agree that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Refund policy

At Swing Era Steps, we strive to create a fun and welcoming dance experience for everyone. We understand that plans can change, so we offer a flexible refund policy to accommodate your needs. Please review the details below:

  1. First Refund Request: You are eligible for a full refund.
  2. Second and Subsequent Refund Requests: You may choose between:
    • A full credit for future classes, or
    • A refund minus a $10 processing fee.
  3. Refunded Classes:
    • By default, only upcoming classes that have not yet occurred at the time of the request will be refunded.
    • Upon request, missed classes may be converted into credit at two-thirds (⅔) of their original value.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help! This policy applies to all class purchases and is subject to change at the studio’s discretion.