Code of Conduct
Our goal is to create a safe, pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for all people - regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, skin color, language, political or other opinions, national or social origin, disabilities, religion or any other status. We are a place where you can make lots of new friends and have a lot of fun. Of course we are looking after each other.
By participating in our events and courses, you agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.
Behaviour
We behave considerately and appreciatively towards other people. There is no place for demeaning, discriminatory, racist, sexist, harassing or abusive behavior or speech in the Hep Cat Club.
All interactions at our events, courses, socials or dances are based on mutual consent - whether it's a request for a dance, an invitation for a drink or any other interaction.
It's okay to say "No!" to a dance, drink or any other interaction. This must be accepted by the other person.
When dancing, people with different levels of experience come together. We try to look out for each other and, especially as experienced dancers, we try to make sure that everyone finds fun in the dance and that we dance comfortably together.
We are an inclusive place. We like to invite new people to dance and welcome them into our community.
We do not give unsolicited feedback or critical comments - unless we are asked for it or something felt painful to us.
Body language can sometimes be misleading. That's why we recommend asking verbally whether everything is okay and making sure you have understood actions and questions correctly.
Respect people's pronouns and gender.
We support each other and look out for each other.
Hygiene
As you will quite certainly be in close contact to other people when you are dancing, please stay at home when you are sick.
Please wash your hands regularly and use desinfectant.
We recommend taking a shower before dancing and making sure you have a pleasant breath. We also have breath fresheners and chewing gum in the toilets for this purpose.
Dancing makes you sweat! We therefore recommend that you change your T-shirt regularly and/or bring a towel with you. Using deodorant also helps! When you come to dance, please wear freshly washed clothes.
Security
We don't do aerials on the social dance floor.
When we dance, we pay attention to our surroundings in order to avoid collisions or accidentally kicking somebody. If this does happen, we apologize to the person and ask if everything is okay.
Culture
The swing dances come from Black-American culture. We want to be respectful guests of this culture and provide a space for collective learning - in keeping with the spirit and culture of the dance.
Support
Our Safer Space Team is always there for you and will provide you with the best possible support for all your concerns. Please simply speak to someone from our team or the people behind the bar. You can also recognize us at festivals by the buttons with the colorful safety clip. If you can't find us, you can also contact the Safer Space Team via email at saferspace@hepcatclub.com. We promise to treat all your concerns confidentially. In case of serious violations, we may exclude the perpetrators from our events.
We encourage you to reach out to us - no matter how big or small your concern. We are there for you!