The organisers of Festival City Swing are committed to producing a friendly, educational and, most importantly, fun event where EVERYONE FEELS SAFE. This document outlines the behaviour we expect from our guests and what to do if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable during this event.
Each individual has a responsibility to themselves and to others to make this event as enjoyable and as comfortable as possible- So in the immortal words of Bill and Ted, “Be excellent to each other!”
- Harassment in any form will not be tolerated, including but not limited to, deliberate intimidation, bullying, stalking, sustained disruption of events, inappropriate physical contact, unwanted sexual attention and discriminatory language, including offensive comments or gestures related to gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race and religion.
- Sexual language is not appropriate during any part of this event, even when intended in jest. We welcome a diverse melting pot of individuals so please be aware of your audience.
- As with many a ‘jolly knees up’, alcohol will be permitted, after all, you are visiting Scotland, the spiritual home of Whisky. Under no circumstances should you be on the dance floor if you are drunk. If you do find yourself in a position where you have accidentally had a wee dram too many and would like to sober up, you should notify one of the event staff. We would be more than happy to provide some water for you, find a space for you to sit and breathe and/or phone for a taxi should you require one. Should we believe you are ‘too drunk to funk’ and risk harming yourself or others, we will happily take responsibility for protecting the people around you by asking you to remove yourself from that space, possibly returning to your room or other accommodation.
We operate a strict ‘no drinks on the dance floor’ policy- ain't nobody needing sticky dance shoes because of a calamitous collision of cocktails.
- A word on illegal behaviour- it should go without saying, but we're saying it just in case… Any engagement in unlawful behaviour will be viewed in the most serious light and will be dealt with accordingly by the people most equipped to do so - the Police. They will be contacted immediately should any person or group of persons be found to be engaging in unlawful practices and behaviour.
- We hope you like the venue and our equipment. We sure do and would like for the good condition of these things to be preserved. We appreciate accidents do happen, so if you do incur any damage to any property not belonging to yourself, please take ownership and 'fess up’. we will ensure you are treated kindly and not made to feel small. We understand that owning up takes courage, and we give massive props for anyone who does so. You will be expected to take responsibility for any damage incurred- including financial repayment to replace or repair anything that has been damaged, we will be understanding and will work with you to figure out the best way of doing this.
- During the course of a dance event, even the most energetic and open of dancers will need a rest, or exercise their right to refuse a dance. No individual should be refused a dance based on any discriminatory reason, including dance ability. Be polite, and be kind. Providing the declination is respectful; there is no reason to take offence. If you ask someone to dance and they refuse, be mindful of them in turn, they have their reason and will explain if they wish to. If they don't, this isn't something to take to heart.
- This list could probably go on forever, but it doesn't need to. Everyone lives in the world, everyone knows something about how they like and don't like to be treated and that they should apply that to other people. However, if any incident does arise which has not been covered here, that does not mean it will be ignored. we care and will do everything we can to provide a comfortable and safe space. Any inappropriate action will have consequences, whether formally listed here or not.
On experiencing any non-excellent behaviour; please contact the Safe Space Ambassador, Taryn, Neil, Stephanie, Lee or any of our volunteers who will be happy to assist.
Any issues that are reported will be treated with the greatest amount of discretion and confidentiality. We hope that in knowing this, you will feel encouraged to approach us if you are feeling ill at ease about anything. We know that opening up can be difficult if you have had a bad experience, and we want you to know that you will be treated with friendliness, respect and care. If, for whatever reason, you don't feel comfortable talking to the individual you find yourself with, you may ask to speak to someone else from the team with whom you feel more comfortable. We promise not to take offence (providing, of course, you are not being offensive when you make the request).
The organisers of Swing Resolution reserve the right to deal with any inappropriate behaviour from issuing a warning to expulsion from the event without a refund. You in turn have the right to be treated with respect should this arise, but expect also that we will be firm in our action and decision.
Spa behaviour:
Please use your good judgement and not do anything that will embarrass the Event Directors or your peers; this includes, any sexual act, please be a - please remember this is a family environment.
Contest Categories and Qualifications WSDC Jack & Jill Contests (World Swing Dance Council Rules Apply. For more information go to www.worldsdc.com).