Code of Conduct
HATDS is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for everyone.
- When attending our dances, be considerate, respectful, and welcoming.
- Respect personal boundaries: Always ask before initiating close or intimate moves, and accept “no” gracefully.
- Invite others to dance. You may ask anyone to dance and anyone may ask you.
- Dancing with different people is a valued tradition and we encourage you to change partners frequently.
- Communicate clearly and kindly. Use respectful language and tone. If someone expresses discomfort, listen and respond with care.
- Get consent for flourishes or for more energetic dancing.
Failure to follow the HATDS Code of Conduct may result in your removal from a dance and/or being banned from future dances.
Additional Policies
Health related
- Attend at your own risk.
- Do not attend if you are not feeling well.
- Masks are welcomed but not required.
- Many of our participants are sensitive to strong odors and fragrances. Do not attend our dances smelling of alcohol, smoke, or fragrances .
Young dancers
- Children 13 and younger must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- Teens 14-17 may attend on their own but must provide an emergency phone number for a responsible adult.
To protect the floor and keep the hall clean
- Please do not wear street shoes for dancing. Bring clean, low-heel shoes that will not scuff or damage the floor, or dance in stocking feet.
- You are encouraged to bring water; please keep in a closed container and refrain from bringing other beverages.
- We may bring snacks as long as we leave the space clean.
Photography / Social Media
During the dance we often take photographs and make video recordings for HATDS' use for promotional purposes. We are going to assume that you are okay with this. If for some reason you don't want your image used in our promotional materials, please let us know so we can remove the images in a reasonable time.
If you have concerns about these policies or want to report an issue, please speak with a board member or email board@hatds.org.
While I dance I cannot judge, I cannot hate, I cannot separate myself from life. I can only be joyful and whole. That is why I dance. ~ Hans Bos