Code of Conduct

We believe the blues scene is one of the most welcoming, joyful, and progressive communities out there. At Blues Remix Festival, we are committed to continuing that spirit — by listening to each other, taking responsibility, and actively nurturing a culture of care where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

This Code of Conduct is here to ensure we’re all on the same page, with a shared understanding of what creates a safe, inclusive, and joyful space. It applies to everyone at the festival — dancers, volunteers, teachers, musicians, staff, and guests.

We welcome everyone regardless of gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, religion, age, dance ability, or dance role. We treat everyone with care and respect — on and off the dance floor.

We have zero tolerance for any form of discrimination, harassment, or harmful behavior. This includes but is not limited to racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, ageism, body shaming, and any form of verbal or physical abuse.Everyone has the right to participate without fear of judgment, exclusion, or mistreatment. Violations of this principle may result in immediate removal from the event, without refund.

Be mindful of your body, your partner, and your surroundings. Drink water, rest when needed, stretch, eat well. Check in on friends and strangers alike. We look out for each other here.

We encourage everyone to choose the role(s) they want to dance — lead, follow, or switch. Dance is a conversation, and both voices matter. Don’t assume someone’s role based on appearance — just ask.

Joy is a deep connection to self and to meaning — it fuels this community. Invite someone new to dance, cheer for the band, smile at your partner, chat with someone you don’t know. Lift each other up.

Dancing should feel good and safe. Feel free to say yes or no to a dance — no reasons needed. Seek clear consent within the dance, verbally or non-verbally. Respect your partner’s space and boundaries. If something feels off, pause and check in. If needed, apologize and adjust.

If someone behaves inappropriately:

• Check that the affected person is okay.
• If you feel safe, speak up to the person involved.
• Otherwise, contact one of our Safe Space Team members.

You’ll meet the Safe Space Team at the festival, and their names and photos will be posted in all venues. They are here to listen and support you.

If we receive concerns about your behavior, we may talk with you and issue a warning. If the behavior continues or is harmful, you may be asked to leave.

 

This Code of Conduct is inspired by the work of Highland Swing, the Espanish Blues Festival,  Boulevard Blues and the Brussels Blues Community, and many grassroots organizers worldwide.

And we’re guided by definitions like this one from the Designing for Safe Space Toolkit (Allgo & UT Austin):

“A safe space is created when a community builds shared agreements about how to treat one another — rooted in respect, care, and accountability — so that everyone can take risks, express themselves, and grow without fear of harm.”

Let’s keep building that kind of space — together.

Reflect on your dancing, your values, and your place in the community. But don’t offer unsolicited feedback — especially on the social floor. The only exception is if someone is hurting you or making you uncomfortable.

Close embrace is wonderful — and even more so when we all smell fresh and feel clean. Shower, wear deodorant, use mints, bring a change of clothes if needed. We’ll provide supplies in the bathrooms if you forget.