Code of Conduct

Berlin Balboa Weekend is dedicated to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for all attendees, including dancers, instructors, staff, and volunteers. By participating in this event, you agree to follow this Code of Conduct. We expect everyone to contribute to a welcoming environment, regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, ability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion (or lack thereof).

Respect & Dance Etiquette

  • Ask, don’t assume. No one is obligated to dance with you. Always ask politely before initiating a dance—do not grab, pull, or pressure someone to dance.

  • It is absolutely okay to say no. No explanations are required, and every dancer’s choice should be respected without question.

  • Seek approval for each dance. If you want to dance a second song, ask, “Shall we have another?” Never assume.

  • Respect personal space and physical boundaries. Always check before dancing in close embrace, doing dips, or attempting other physically involved moves.

  • No unsolicited feedback. Unless explicitly asked, avoid offering dance corrections or advice.

  • Switching roles is welcome. Anyone can lead or follow—don’t assume based on gender or experience.

Hygiene & Health Considerations

  • Dance with good hygiene. Because we dance in close contact, please bring a change of clothes if you sweat a lot, use hand sanitizer between dances, and stay home if you feel sick.

  • Be mindful of scents. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes, as some dancers may be sensitive to them.

Dance Floor Safety

  • Avoid lifts, air steps, big jumps or dangerous moves on the social dance floor. These moves should only be done where space allow it and safety is considered.

  • If a dance becomes uncomfortable or painful, it is always okay to stop. Communicate openly with your partner.

Creating an Inclusive & Welcoming Atmosphere

  • Be welcoming. We all share the responsibility of creating an open and inclusive space. Say hello to newcomers, ask someone new to dance, and foster a sense of community.

  • There is room for everyone on the dance floor. We encourage dancers of all skill levels, backgrounds, and identities to participate freely and comfortably.

Unacceptable Behavior

Berlin Balboa Weekend has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including but not limited to:

  • Unwanted physical contact or inappropriate advances.

  • Offensive verbal comments about gender, age, sexuality, disability, race, or appearance.

  • Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following.

  • Disrupting workshops, social dances, or competitions.

  • Unwanted photography or recording without consent.

    If someone asks you to stop any behavior that makes them uncomfortable, you are expected to comply immediately.

Reporting an Incident

If you experience or harassment or inappropriate behavior:

While your identity will be kept confidential, providing your name can help us address the situation more effectively. All reports will be handled with discretion and taken seriously. If you witness inappropriate behavior or see someone in distress, please inform a member of the organizing team.

Acknowledgment & Cultural Respect

We recognize that jazz dance is a Black art form that originated in Harlem, New York, and that Balboa developed within diverse, marginalized communities in Los Angeles in the 1920s and ’30s, including those of African American, Jewish, Armenian, Meso- and South American, and Philippine heritage. At Berlin Balboa Weekend, we strive to honor the roots of this dance by fostering an environment of learning, appreciation, and respect.

By attending Berlin Balboa Weekend, you agree to uphold these values and contribute to a positive, inclusive dance community.