BraZouky is committed to the safe, comfortable and inclusive enjoyment of dance for all; regardless of dance skill level, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, ability, physical appearance, body, race, religion, or any other characteristic or trait. Everyone participating in our events is expected to abide by our rules and guidelines, and demonstrate respect for all participants.
Dance floor safety:
- Always invite and NEVER force your partner into a movement beyond their current experience, skill or fitness level; or otherwise outside of their comfort zone.
- Never lead a beginner dancer, or lead yourself as a beginner dancer into head movements/frango assado/tilted turns, and be careful with moves such as planks, cambres, counter balances or any non-vertical moves. These moves can easily cause injury.
- Respect your dance partner’s boundaries, both stated and implied. If your partner asks you not to do something, either verbally or physically, don’t do it.
- Please use your full range of senses on the dance floor to avoid collisions and injuries. On crowded dance floors, we advise against leading or following any non-vertical head movement.
Dance floor respect:
- If someone says no to a dance, respect their answer and try not to take it personally. There are many reasons to say no to a dance, that are no reflection on you.
- While close hold is for many an enjoyable part of Brazilian Zouk, it is not necessary for a fun, connected and beautiful dance. Carefully gauge your partner’s comfort level with body contact, and NEVER force someone to dance closer than their preference.
- Do not give your partner unsolicited suggestions for improvement while on the social floor. This can be disheartening in a space intended to celebrate and enjoy the dance.
- Harassment will not be tolerated. Harassment includes (but is not limited to) inappropriate comments, verbal abuse, intimidation, bullying, stalking, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption, unwanted physical contact, and unwanted sexual attention.
If anyone is observed or reported engaging in harassing or unsafe behaviour, BraZouky staff will take any action we deem appropriate. Anyone asked to stop harassing or unsafe behaviour is expected to comply immediately. Continued harassing or unsafe behaviour may result in expulsion from the event, and potentially referral to the police.
If you ever feel uncomfortable, unsafe, marginalised, disrespected, or treated unfairly in our workshops or socials, please find a BraZouky staff member. We can provide you with support, confidentiality, take measures to rectify the situation, and help you file a report if you wish.
