Code of Conduct

South West Swing is dedicated to promoting swing dancing throughout the South West of Western Australia. Everyone is at our events because they enjoy swing music, dance, and culture. We welcome all people to dance events regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, ability, physical appearance, race, or religion. South West Swing is committed to providing a safe scene for everyone to enjoy. All people engaging in our events are required to act in accordance with our Code of Conduct to help ensure a safe and fun environment is created for everybody to enjoy.

What is Not Okay?

Any unwanted or unwelcome behaviour (sexual or otherwise) that makes someone unsafe, offended, humiliated, or intimidated. Inappropriate behaviour can be physical, verbal, or written. Examples of unacceptable behaviour include but are not limited to:

• Unwanted or non-consented physical contact.

• Aerials on the social dance floor (never attempt aerials, lifts, or drops socially). If you are in a jam circle, ensure you have consent from your partner to perform any aerial, lift, or drop.

• Other unsafe dance floor practices (regularly bumping into others). Be considerate of others' space and the space you and your partner occupy to avoid injuring another person.

• Inappropriate behaviour due to being under the influence of any substance.

• Inappropriate verbal or written comments, teasing, or putting down of others.

• Intimidation or stalking.

• Unwanted sexual advances.

• Posting unwanted, unauthorised or inappropriate material on social media, particularly when directed at or about an individual.

• Any inappropriate, bullying or harassing messages.

• Continuing to harass or ask someone for a dance after they have repeatedly said no

• Displaying offensive photos or objects.

• Bullying (repeated verbal, physical, social, or psychological abuse causing another person distress or risking their health and safety).

• BYO alcohol (unless specifically advised as okay).

• Use or provision of illegal substances including illicit drugs or weapons.

• Behaviour that may be considered an offence under criminal law, such as physical assault, indecent exposure, sexual assault, stalking, or obscene communications.

What is Okay?

• Be good people: do not use language or act in a way that is misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, racist, etc.

• Ask for verbal consent: "Would you like to dance?" "Would you like a drink?".

• Even if you've been given consent before, ask every time.

• Proactively find out whether the person you are dancing with is comfortable. Watch for body language and cues, and check in verbally.

• You may so no to/refuse a dance for any reason at any time. You may stop dancing with someone at any time. You do not have to give a reason for refusing or leaving a dance.

• Respect the bodies and persons of other people: ask permission before touching someone and stop if someone asks you to. Respect when someone says no and regard their boundaries.

• Respect, recognise, and honour the African American origins of Lindy Hop and swing music through respect and ongoing learning.

If someone has let you know, verbally or non-verbally, that they are feeling uncomfortable, address your behaviour, apologise sincerely, and make a change immediately.

Unaccompanied Minors

All minors must attend with an accompanying parent or guardian in attendance at any event for all attendees under the age of 18 for the entire time the minor attendee is at the event. We are not able to stand in proxy for parents. Accommodation and transport for minors must be organised by the parent/guardian in advance to ensure the minor feels safe and confident about how to leave. Minors must be identified to event committee members upon arrival.

How can I report something?

Do you feel like there has been a breach of our Code of Conduct? Tell us! If you are injured, feel uncomfortable or unsafe, or are experiencing or witnessing inappropriate behaviour, please let us know. We will take immediate action. We will handle any issue, big or small, with absolute seriousness and in the strictest confidence.

You can approach:

• A member of the committee

• If you do not feel comfortable speaking to someone in person, you can email boogiedownsafely@gmail.com

Violations of the Code of Conduct will result in a range of outcomes, from a conversation and reference to the Code of Conduct, to immediate or long-term expulsion from our venues and events.

If you need urgent assistance, the crisis hotlines below are also available:

• Lifeline Australia (13 11 14)

• Crisis Care (08 9223 1111)

• Sexual Assault Resource Centre 24 hour emergency line (1800 199 888)
  

Have fun, make friends. Be supportive and respectful of each other, and keep each other safe.

Thank you to the Perth Swing Dance Society for their support with South West Swing’s Code of Conduct.