SAFE SPACE & CODE OF CONDUCT (SSCC)
The Kiz Lab is dedicated to providing a fun atmosphere at their events. Our vision is to foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for participants of diverse backgrounds to learn and enjoy Urban Kiz and other related genres of dance, foster the spirit of care and community, positive social connections, self-discovery, and personal growth
To serve this mission, we set the highest standards of behavior both at the class/workshop/event itself and in the broader Kiz Lab community. To make sure everyone feels welcome, respected, safe and comfortable, we have established this SSCC to provide some guidelines and standards of behavior that we expect everyone to follow for the benefit of all participants.
For the purposes of this SSCC, “Participant” is any ticketed or non-ticketed individual granted admission to the class/workshop/event or any of its activities, including the official pre- and after-parties.
As a community, we strive to treat each other with respect and hold each other accountable. We encourage individuals to appropriately manage issues when they arise and inform us of any inappropriate behavior or ask for assistance as needed. Participants who experience or observe inappropriate behavior may submit a report in the following ways: inform a volunteer, inform staff, or online reporting form (with option for anonymity).
Incident reports are collected by a private form managed by Jessica Marie. To report an incident click the button
The Participant understands and agrees that organizers reserve the right to record and retain information pertaining to any SSCC violations, supporting evidence, testimonies and any decisions made in such regard and that it reserves the right to share such information, at its sole discretion, with third parties such as other organizers and community safety groups and committees. The organizers reserve the right to address misconduct in a manner appropriate to the extent of the misconduct in a variety of ways ranging from having a conversation regarding expectations to a permanent ban from all future activities.
Respect & Inclusion, Safety, Consent
Display positive and respectful attitude towards other participants, artists/instructors/DJs, and staff; to treat everyone regardless of their sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, political views, nationality, ethnicity, age, ability, physician appearance, lifestyle, dance experience and other characteristics with respect. There will be zero tolerance for verbal or nonverbal aggression based on these characteristics, disparaging comments or insults. Refrain from using profanities or slurs or speak in a manner and fashion offensive to class/workshop/event participants, staff, or artists/instructors/DJs.
Take a proactive role in ensuring your own safety and the safety of other attendees. This includes following any appropriate safety instructions communicated by the class/workshop/event. If you become aware of any safety or security concerns for yourself or other attendees, please report it. Participants will comply with the announced COVID safety protocols in effect at the time of the class/workshop/event.
Refrain from using alcohol or other substances to the extent that would impair their ability to safely participate in the class/workshop/event and all its activities. Excessive intoxication and disorderly conduct may result in the Participant’s removal from the class/workshop/event without refund or reimbursement.
Refrain from behaving in a manner that excludes physical aggression, non-consensual physical contact, verbal threats, insults, intimidation, destruction of property, harassment, psychological and/or emotional abuse, and other aggressive or abusive behavior either during or outside the class/workshop/event. Any such conduct will result in an immediate removal from the class/workshop/event.
Receive explicit, affirmative, ongoing, enthusiastic consent prior to initiating any interaction including dances, dips and tricks, hugs, kisses, and more intimate relationships. Participants will respect everyone’s physical and emotional boundaries, and individuals’ agency. Consent cannot be given if someone is incapacitated, unconscious, or coerced. If someone says “stop” or withdraws consent, comply by ending the interaction immediately.
Public Health, Hygiene, Attire
The Participant agrees to…
Follow public health guidelines for all national, state, and local requirements. Participants will practice regular hand washing and sanitizing upon arrival, between dances, and departure. Those who feel unwell or exhibit symptoms will stay home. Proper wearing of face masks will be required for the duration of the class/workshop/event unless announced otherwise in accordance with CDC and national, state, and local requirements. Each individual class/workshop/event will list if masks are mandatory.
Practice good hygiene including showering regularly, using deodorant, monitoring body odor, bringing a sweat towel or an additional clean outfit, brushing teeth, using mints or chewing gum as needed, appropriate (but minimal!) use of body sprays or perfumes, etc. We encourage everyone to be open to hearing and incorporating feedback about hygiene issues we may not notice about ourselves.
Thoughtfully select their clothing for personal comfort and safety, and that of others. Avoid sharp jewelry, sharp or bulky objects in pockets, anything with spikes and large buckles, etc. Wear dance appropriate shoes preferably with soft soles.
Dance Etiquette
The Participant agrees to…
Show respect to their dance partners by…
Dancing within the skill level and ability of their partner, do not push them beyond their capacity or force moves. Take care of your partner and put safety and comfort first.
Remembering anyone can ask anyone else to dance regardless of their dance role or level. Anyone can also respectfully decline a dance without an obligation to explain. #ConsentExercise
Refrain from offering unsolicited advice or critique someone’s dancing. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or unsafe in a dance and need something to change or stop, frame it as a request rather than a critique.
Show respect for the class and learning environment by…
Arriving on time and ready to learn. Some workshops may require a briefing and establishing a safe container for the participants. It's the instructor’s sole discretion whether to allow late arrivals to their workshops. Minimize chatter during the workshop as they can be disruptive to the instructor and other attendees.
Respecting the level of the class/workshop. We encourage all participants to challenge themselves; we ask that you stay realistic about your abilities to maintain pace with the material taught and other participants. We encourage experienced dancers to participate in fundamental level workshops. Please stick to what is being taught in class, do not attempt moves and skills beyond the scope of the class in order to best support all attendees.
Refrain from teaching. If you dance with someone with less experience than you and sense that they need additional assistance, ask the instructor. Refrain from providing feedback unless your partner specifically asks for it.
Show respect for the social dance floor by…
Practicing good floor craft and staying aware of your physical surroundings and other dancers. Do not stand or walk through the dance floor, you may cause collisions.
Keeping food and beverages in the designated areas. Do not bring it to the dance floor, DJ booth, or near equipment.
Only executing dips, lifts, or “show” moves with your partner’s prior consent. Lifts higher than 5 inches off the floor are not permitted regardless of consent.
Recognizing that accidents happen on the dance floor. If you step on, hit, trip or bump into someone by accident, please stop to apologize. If it’s a more serious injury, stop the dance, check in with them, and offer to help them off the dance floor. Inquire if they need an ice pack, a band aid, etc. and inform the class/workshop/event staff.
No touching DJ equipment, starting a conversation while DJs are playing, going behind the DJ to look at song names, etc. If you want to talk to the DJ, patiently wait until after their set.
Remembering our artists/instructors/DJs are human beings first! They require rest and water breaks too. As a Participant, you are not entitled to dances with the artists/instructors/DJs. Do not ask instructors for feedback when social dancing, it’s not the proper environment.