We believe that the folk music & dance community is already welcoming, supportive (and awesome!) and that instances of inappropriate behaviour are rare. Our Code of Conduct is designed to acknowledge that we all have a responsibility to build safety into events, and to contribute to the well-being of the whole community. We love to dance, and we want you to love it too.
The following guidelines apply to EVERYONE attending Eurosession and related events, including volunteers, visiting musicians and teachers:
1. We will treat all people with RESPECT. We will not harass anyone. We will not discriminate according to sex, gender expression or sexual orientation, nor disability, race, ethnicity, religion, or nationality. We will treat everyone equally, regardless of age, ability, physical appearance, lifestyle, music or dance experience or role. We are mindful and respectful of the needs and boundaries of each attendee.
2. We will be INCLUSIVE and invite others to dance, and we will be gracious if turned down. We may say no without giving a reason, but we will be polite when doing so. We make an effort to ask beginners to dance. We can dance as a leader or a follower, or both or neither. Sometimes all at the same time. There are no gender assignments made to dance roles. We give beginners patience and time.
3. We will be RESPONSIBLE for our own physical safety and that of others nearby. We will take care when dancing and say sorry if we accidentally bump someone else. We will not offer unsolicited advice or instruction. If we consume alcohol we will do so responsibly, and if we are drunk enough to pose a risk to ourselves or others, we will leave the dance floor.
4. We will take CARE of our own personal hygiene, and bring towels, spare clothing and extra deodorant if necessary. We will be considerate when choosing our clothing, footwear, and accessories and we will not wear anything that is potentially hazardous to ourselves or to others.
5. We will be RESPECTFUL and acknowledge that the personal boundaries of others may not be the same as our own. We will be mindful of the appropriateness of language that some may find offensive. We will not touch anyone without consent and we will apologise immediately if we unintentionally touch someone’s private areas.
6. We UNDERSTAND that following the above guidelines ensures a better experience for everyone and that participating in any kind of verbal, physical or sexual abuse will have consequences. This may include, but is not limited to, being asked to leave without refund and exclusion from future events.
7. The organisers (Eurosession Committee), PROMISE to treat any reports made, from dancers or others, with sensitivity, and to keep all details as confidential as is possible (however, in the event of a police investigation, all information will become disclosable).
8. We ENCOURAGE anyone who has experienced or witnessed intimidating or inappropriate behaviour as a result of attending an event organised by Sheffield Eurosession to tell any of the committee members. Feel free to raise your concerns – not just formal reports – we’re here for you!