Austin Ballroom Dancers
Code of Conduct
Adopted July 25, 2026
1. I accept that as an attendee of ABD dances and events:
I will not engage with other dancers or other guests at ABD dances and events using words, threats, or acts that impact their psychological or physical safety, real or perceived.
I recognize that the purpose of ballroom dancing is to have fun while connecting with another person. I will make the best effort to be attentive to my dance partner and enjoy each dance with each person regardless of background, race, gender, beliefs, or skill level.
I understand that consent is important and necessary
I will obtain consent before taking any action, whether grabbing someone to dance or anything more. I understand that the social dance floor is not the appropriate place to make advances on someone before receiving consent. I understand that consenting to a dance is not the same as consenting to anything else.
I will be mindful of my and my partner’s personal space while dancing
I will not touch my dance partner in inappropriate places. While accidents may happen, I will try to avoid instances of inappropriate touching with my dance partner.
I understand that each dancer has different physical boundaries and will respect those boundaries both on and off the dance floor.
I will be mindful of myself, my dance partner, and my surroundings when I dance
I will not attempt large moves, lifts, kicks, or other movements that may cause injury and/or discomfort to my dance partner, myself, or those around me.
I will be respectful of other couples on the dance floor and their space.
It is ok and expected for me to tell my dance partner if something they do causes me discomfort
I will make my best effort to inform them and give them an opportunity to change it. I understand that communication can clear up misunderstandings before they build. I recognize that people are sometimes unaware that their actions are uncomfortable until they are informed.
If I receive feedback from my dance partner about something that causes them discomfort, I will take it graciously.
I will not teach on the social dance floor
I will not offer unsolicited advice about someone’s dancing. I understand that people of all skill levels come to enjoy the dance and may not be looking for feedback.
I will bring inappropriate actions that I personally experience or observe to the attention of an ABD Board member
I understand that it is my responsibility to report breaches of this code of conduct in order to facilitate a better, safer, community.
How to report incidents:
If someone’s actions are in the realm of (sexual or otherwise) harassment or abuse, please inform an ABD board member. That said, simply not liking the way someone looks, talks, or dances is not a good enough reason to accuse them of harassment.
The ABD Board will only accept “official complaints” from those directly involved with the incident or authorized representatives of those involved. We do not accept hearsay (i.e., secondhand information). We understand that it can be uncomfortable, so we will accept complaints both in-person and via writing. Written complaints can be submitted to abdboardmembers@gmail.com.
If you breach this code of conduct:
Serious breaches of code of conduct will result in automatic ban at the discretion of the ABD board members
Previous police records for sexual harassment or existing restraining orders within the dance community will result in an automatic ban
A ban at a venue an ABD dance will result in an automatic ban for ABD events at that specific venue. effective on notice to the ABD Board of such ban by the venue or confirmed by the venue.
Otherwise:
First report will result in a discussion and possible verbal repercussion
Second report will result in you being told to leave the event
Three reports within a short timespan will result in a six-month ban, at the discretion of the ABD Board