At Baile da Dom, we believe that everyone — regardless of gender, background, age, disability, or dance level — deserves to feel welcome, safe, and respected. This is our Safer Spaces policy, which applies to all our activities: classes, workshops, parties, and events.

Dancing with Respect

  • Respect & Understanding: Treat everyone with kindness. Communicate your boundaries and respect those of others.
  • Zero Discrimination: Sexist or discriminatory behaviour based on gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, body type, social class, or any other ground is not tolerated. This includes demeaning jokes and harassment.
  • Dance Roles & Gender: Dance roles are not determined by gender. Everyone can lead or follow.
  • Connection & Joy: The focus is on the pleasure of dancing and sharing positive energy. We are here to dance, not to flirt.
  • Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity! Invite everyone to dance, regardless of disability, race, gender, age, body type, or dance level. Let’s make sure everyone feels seen.

On the Dance Floor: Your Comfort Matters

Physical & Moral Integrity

  • Speak up if a move or position is painful or uncomfortable.
  • Respect your partner’s preferences regarding close hold, specific moves, or lifts.
  • Limit physical contact to what is necessary for dancing. Apologise if you accidentally touched a sensitive area.
  • Kissing or sniffing any part of your partner’s body without consent is not tolerated.

Consent & Withdrawal

You can withdraw your consent at any time, without giving any reason. This includes refusing a dance or stopping mid-dance.

Space Awareness

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

Feedback

Keep dance feedback for lessons only, unless requested or if behaviour causes pain or injury. Politely decline unsolicited feedback.

Participant Guidelines: Be Considerate

  • Hygiene: Essential for close-contact dancing. Please shower, brush your teeth, use deodorant, bring a clean spare shirt, and wear breathable fabrics at classes and parties.
  • Responsible substance use: Be moderate with alcohol and substances at parties. Focus on the joy of forró and dancing.
  • Staff and organisers: As staff (organiser, volunteer, teacher, musician, DJ), be aware of your position of power. Refrain from flirting or using your status to gain favours or privileges.

Incident Response: Your Safety is Our Priority

What is not okay?

Any unwanted or unwelcome behaviour (sexual or otherwise) that makes someone feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated. This includes:

  • Inappropriate comments, teasing, or intimidation
  • Stalking
  • Unwanted physical contact or sexual advances
  • Inappropriate messages on social media
  • Any criminal offence

If you witness or experience something:

  • Use your voice: You are always allowed to adjust the dance (e.g. “Can we have more space?” or “Please don’t dip me”).
  • As a witness: Offer help to the affected person (if comfortable) and/or discuss it directly with one of the organisers.
  • As a victim: Talk directly to an organiser, or ask someone else to inform them on your behalf if you are not comfortable doing so yourself.
  • Walk away: You always have the right to leave an unsafe or uncomfortable dance without explanation.

Report Anonymously

Did something happen that wasn’t okay? Do you want to let us know? You can report anonymously using the form below. We take every report seriously.

This form is submitted anonymously. Your name or email address will not be recorded unless you fill it in yourself.

Our Commitment

Baile da Dom is committed to protecting our dancers and will not tolerate harassment in any form. Minor offences will result in a warning; repeated or serious offences may lead to exclusion from future events and, if necessary, involvement of the police.

Together we create a safe and joyful space for all dancers, promoting respect and celebrating diversity. Thank you for helping make Baile da Dom a wonderful and safe community for everyone!

Questions or comments? Send an email to info@bailedadom.nl

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