Code of Conduct

Palmetto Swing Dance Association (PSDA) is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and safe space for all dancers to learn, connect, and have fun. This Code of Conduct outlines our shared responsibilities to one another and helps ensure a respectful, enjoyable environment for everyone.
Dance is for everyone, regardless of age, race, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ability, size, religion, dance level, or background. We do not tolerate harassment, bullying, or behavior that makes others feel unsafe or unwelcome. 
By attending PSDA events, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. Violations may result in removal from the event without refund and when necessary, a ban from all future PSDA events.
We rely on our community to foster a positive environment built on consent, courtesy, and care. Our PSDA Code of Conduct may be updated at any time to reflect the needs of the community.

What We Expect From All Attendees

• Be kind, inclusive, and welcoming to dancers of all levels, styles, and identities.
• Use clear verbal consent when initiating a dance or any physical connection.
• Respect a “NO” without further explanation.
• Respect others’ boundaries—physical, emotional, and personal - both verbal and nonverbal.
• Communicate your own boundaries respectfully when necessary.
• Avoid unsolicited feedback or instruction during social dancing and classes.
• Dance with care. Protect yourself and others on the floor by dancing with awareness.
• Choose your dance role freely—lead, follow, or switch—regardless of gender identity or tradition.
• Respect all rules posted at event venues and follow the guidance of the board and organizers.

Behavior That Will Not Be Tolerated

• Dancing without awareness of others on the floor.
• Unsolicited Feedback or Criticism: Offering dance advice, critiques, or corrections without being asked, especially during social dances, can be intrusive and unwelcome.
• Overly Forceful Leading or Following: Using excessive force or aggressive movements that can cause discomfort or injury to your partner. 
• Attempting aerials or air steps during social dancing.
• Harassment, stalking, threatening, or bullying of any kind.
• Unwanted or Inappropriate Touching: Engaging in physical contact that is unnecessary or inappropriate for the dance context, such as grabbing, squeezing, or touching without consent.
• Ignoring Personal Boundaries: Failing to respect a partner's personal space or continuing to engage after they've indicated discomfort.
• Sexually Suggestive Dance Moves: Incorporating movements that are overtly sexual or suggestive, which can make others feel uncomfortable or harassed.
• Inappropriate Comments or Jokes: Making remarks that are sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or otherwise offensive. 
• Persistent Unwanted Attention: Continuing to ask someone to dance after they've declined, or following them around the venue, which can be perceived as stalking.
• Disregarding Health and Hygiene: Attending events while sick or neglecting personal hygiene, which can affect the comfort and health of others.
• Showing up intoxicated or under the influence of impairing substances.
• Violating local laws or venue policies (PSDA events are alcohol-free).
• Respecting the venue space, including not damaging or altering the floors, chairs, tables with any outside substances. 
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These lists are not exhaustive. When in doubt, prioritize respect, safety, and kindness

If Something Happens

You don’t need to meet any specific threshold to make a report. If someone’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespected in any way, or you witness behavior that seems inappropriate, we encourage you to report it. All concerns will be handled with strict confidentiality. 
You can speak to:

• President, Vice President, any other board members or organizers.
• You can also email, [email protected], or message us on Facebook or Instagram.

No specific level of harm is required to report something. If something feels wrong—please tell us. We take every report seriously and treat all information with care and discretion. 
In the event of a crime or legal obligation, the appropriate authorities will be notified.
Accountability & ActionIf someone violates this Code of Conduct, our Board Members and Organizers may take any action necessary to maintain a safe and welcoming space. If you're asked to stop behavior that is unwelcome or perceived as harassing, even if it was not your intention, you are expected to stop immediately.

​Consequences for Unacceptable Behavior

Depending on the severity of the misconduct, the following actions may be taken:

• First Offense: A verbal or written warning will be issued, along with a request to correct the behavior.
• Second Offense: Temporary removal from a class, dance, or event.
• Third Offense: Permanent ban from all future PSDA events.

Every effort will be made to mediate the situation unless someone is in immediate danger or a crime is occurring. In cases requiring a ban from future PSDA events, the Board will be informed—while protecting the anonymity of the reporter whenever possible.
We approach each situation with care and discretion, prioritizing the well-being of the community and we truly hope none of these actions will be necessary. Neither the appropriate or inappropriate behavior lists are exhaustive. When in doubt, prioritize respect, safety, and kindness.

Thank You

We are grateful for your help in making Palmetto Swing Dance Association a space where everyone feels seen, respected, and safe. Let’s continue building a dance community we’re proud to be part of. Together, we make the PSDA community one where everyone feels welcome, valued, and safe—on and off the dance floor.