Respect & Understanding

Treat everyone kindly. Communicate your boundaries and respect the boundaries of those around you. Look out for signals of discomfort and act accordingly.

Zero Discrimination

We do not tolerate any kind of discrimination or discriminatory behavior (including sexism, ageism, racism, lookism, body-based discrimination, discrimination against gender, sexual orientation, religion, social class or any other form of discrimination).

Dance Roles & Gender

Dance roles are not determined by gender.

Building Connections

Prioritize the joy of dancing and sharing a space with like-minded people. Come to our space to share dances and meaningful interactions, not solely to flirt.

Promoting Inclusivity

We celebrate diversity. Invite diverse people to dance, welcoming everyone regardless of disability, race, gender, age, body size, or dance skill level. Let's make sure everyone feels seen!

Physical & Moral Integrity

Consent & Withdrawal

You can withdraw consent at any time without justification. This includes refusing a dance or stopping mid-dance.

Spatial Awareness & Floorcraft

Be mindful of your dance space and others. Avoid aerials and lifts on crowded social dance floors. Anticipate movements to prevent collisions.

Feedback

Keep dance feedback to lessons and workshops only, unless requested or if behavior causes pain/injury. Politely decline unsolicited feedback. This doesn't apply to setting boundaries. Communication about your wants & needs as well as your boundaries is always welcome.

Hygiene

Essential for close-contact dancing. Please be fresh, shower, brush your teeth, use deodorant, bring an extra clean t-shirt/top, and wear preferably breathable fabrics on the workshops and parties.

Responsible Substance Use

Be moderate in your consumption of alcohol and other substances at parties, as it can impair your ability to negotiate consent and to read signals of discomfort. Focus on the joy of Forró and dance connection.

Festival Staff

As staff (organizer, volunteer, teacher, musician, DJ), be aware of your power imbalance. Refrain from flirting or using your status to gain favors or privileges.

What is Not Okay?

Any unwanted, sexualised or otherwise unwelcome behavior that makes a person feel offended, humiliated, intimidated or affected in any way, is not okay. This includes, but is not limited to:

If You Witness or Experience Inappropriate Behavior

You always have the right to walk away from an unsafe or uncomfortable dance without explanation.

• Communicating Your Needs: Feel empowered to use your voice to adjust the dance (e.g., "Can we get more space?" or "Please don't dip me").
• Witnessing Behavior: Offer help to the affected person (if comfortable) and/or discuss it directly and immediately with one of the Safer Spaces team members or an organiser.
• Experiencing Behavior: Talk directly to an organiser, or ask someone else to inform them on your behalf if you are not comfortable.

Reporting Incidents

If an incident occurs, please report it to one of the Safer Spaces team members, send an email to saferspaces@forrodenhaag.nl or fill out our online Care Form.