Palmetto Swing Dance Association (PSDA) is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all dancers to learn, connect, and have fun. We do not tolerate harassment, bullying, or behavior that makes others feel unsafe or unwelcome.  ​Violations may result in removal from the event without refund and, when necessary, suspension or banning from future PSDA events. Our PSDA Code of Conduct may be updated at any time to reflect the needs of the community.

By attending PSDA events, you agree to follow this Code of Conduct. 

Community Expectations

• Be kind, inclusive, and welcoming to dancers of all levels, styles, and identities.
• Respect a “NO” without pressure or further explanation. Nobody owes anyone a dance, and anyone may decline or leave a dance at any time. 
• Please do not take it personally if someone declines a dance or ends one early.
• Respect others’ physical, emotional, and personal boundaries, both verbal and nonverbal.
• Communicate your own boundaries respectfully when necessary.​​

• Avoid unsolicited feedback or instruction during lessons and social dancing.
• Dance with care and awareness for the safety of your partner and others on the floor.
• Get clear consent from your partner before initiating moves involving unusual closeness, weight-bearing moves, or deep dips.
• Respect all venue rules and follow the guidance of board members, organizers, and volunteers.
• All PSDA events are alcohol free unless otherwise specified.​

Unacceptable Behavior

• Unsafe Dancing: Dancing without awareness of others, overly forceful leading or following, or using movements that may cause discomfort or injury to your partner.
• Aerials and Weight-Bearing Moves: Aerials are not allowed on our social dance floors. Please do NOT attempt weight-bearing moves or deep dips without verbal consent from your partner.
• Unsolicited Feedback or Criticism: Offering dance advice, critiques, or corrections without being asked, during lessons and social dancing. Please respect instructors and avoid interjecting during lessons, as it can be disruptive and unhelpful.​
• Harassment or Unwanted Attention: Harassment, stalking, bullying, repeated unwanted attention, or inappropriate romantic or sexual advances.​​​​

• Boundary Violations: Unwanted touching, ignoring verbal or nonverbal cues, failing to respect personal space, or continuing behavior after someone has expressed discomfort.
  
• Discriminatory or Offensive Language: Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or otherwise discriminatory remarks or behavior.
  
• Sexually Suggestive Behavior: Overtly sexual comments, jokes, gestures, or dance movements. 
• Health and Safety Concerns: Attending events while sick, intoxicated, or under the influence of impairing substances. Please maintain reasonable personal hygiene out of respect for fellow dancers.
• Property Damage: Damaging floors, furniture, or other venue property through unsafe or disrespectful behavior.

Please note, these lists are not exhaustive. When in doubt, prioritize respect, safety, and kindness.

Accountability & Action

If Something Happens

If someone tells you that your behavior is making them feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or unwelcome, you are expected to STOP immediately, regardless of intent.
If someone violates this Code of Conduct, PSDA board members and organizers may take appropriate action to protect the safety and well-being of the community.

Consequences may include:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Removal from a class or event
• Temporary suspension from PSDA events
• In extreme cases or after repeated violations, a permanent ban from PSDA events. 
• Serious violations may result in immediate removal or banning without prior warning.
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We take all concerns seriously and will handle situations with discretion, and respect for everyone involved. Our goal is always to support the safety and well-being of the community while working toward resolution whenever possible. Information will only be shared with those necessary to address the situation or when legally required. 

​If immediate safety is at risk or criminal behavior is occurring, appropriate action may be taken, including contacting authorities when necessary. In cases involving suspension or banning from future PSDA events, the Board will be informed while protecting privacy whenever possible.

If someone’s behavior makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespected, or if you witness concerning behavior, we encourage you to check in and/or notify an organizer.

You can speak to:

• Board members, organizers, or volunteers
• Submit a PSDA Community Feedback 2026 form. QR code is also posted at dance events.
• Or contact us by email at [email protected] or through our social media accounts.
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You do not need to meet any specific threshold to make a report. 

If something feels wrong, please tell us.

Thank You

Thank you for helping make PSDA a space where everyone feels seen, respected, and safe.

​Together, we can continue building a dance community where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported, on and off the dance floor.