code of conduct
BSF is about artistry and connecting with people. We are a community that welcomes all races, genders, sexual identities and dance levels. We welcome all people who want to experience the joy of dance. BSF is a space for the New England Latin dance community to come together and share their love for learning, performing, and social dancing. It is a reunion of friends and a celebration!
OUR CODE
OUR COMMITMENT
We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone participating in our events—whether you are a dancer, performer, instructor, volunteer, vendor, staff member, or guest.
By attending the Boston Salsa Festival, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Your participation is contingent upon this agreement, and violations may result in removal without refund and exclusion from future events.
EXPECTED BEHAVIOR
All participants are expected to:
UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR
BSF does not tolerate:
REPORTING A VIOLATION
We take all reports seriously and will respond with urgency, privacy, discretion, and empathy. If you experience or witness misconduct, please speak/text with one of our staff members at 617-955-7289 or 978-284-0500
You may also email us directly at: [email protected]
Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in:
TOGETHER, WE DANCE BETTER
Thank you for helping us make BSFan empowering, respectful, and joyful space. By attending, you are agreeing to uphold this Code of Conduct, protecting the integrity of our community and ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe.
Thank you
Boston Salsa Festival Team
August 2025
OUR CODE
- We are welcoming towards people of all identities sharing the joy of dance.
- We ask for a dance and wait for a response to be given.
- We respect and know that it is okay to say, “no”.
- We are attentive to body language and adjust our actions when we notice someone is uncomfortable. Everyone isn’t comfortable with every move.
- We respond thoughtfully if someone verbally expresses discomfort while dancing with us.
- We keep our hands in appropriate places while dancing.
- We express gratitude for the dance.
OUR COMMITMENT
We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone participating in our events—whether you are a dancer, performer, instructor, volunteer, vendor, staff member, or guest.
By attending the Boston Salsa Festival, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Your participation is contingent upon this agreement, and violations may result in removal without refund and exclusion from future events.
EXPECTED BEHAVIOR
All participants are expected to:
- Respect personal boundaries — always ask before dancing and accept “no” as a final answer.
- Engage respectfully — use inclusive, affirming language and treat others with dignity at all times.
- Practice safe and consensual dancing — avoid dangerous or physically aggressive movements unless explicitly agreed upon by both parties.
- Help maintain a positive, welcoming atmosphere — make room for everyone on and off the dance floor.
- Report any misconduct — notify event staff or a member of the Safety Team if you witness or experience inappropriate behavior.
UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR
BSF does not tolerate:
- Harassment or discrimination of any kind — including physical, verbal, sexual, or emotional abuse.
- Unwanted touching or sexual advances — consent must be clearly given and can be revoked at any time.
- Intimidation or stalking — whether in person, online, or via messaging platforms.
- Disruptive intoxication — behavior that compromises the safety or comfort of others.
- Hate speech, slurs, or demeaning comments — based on race, gender, ability, orientation, nationality, or religion.
REPORTING A VIOLATION
We take all reports seriously and will respond with urgency, privacy, discretion, and empathy. If you experience or witness misconduct, please speak/text with one of our staff members at 617-955-7289 or 978-284-0500
You may also email us directly at: [email protected]
- If you are assaulted, free and confidential medical care is available. The closest SANE site (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) is Newton/Wellesley Hospital at 2014 Washington St, Newton. You do NOT have to report your assault to law enforcement to receive medical care.
- If you are assaulted and would like to connect with a rape crisis center, you can call the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center hotline at 800-841-8371. They are available 24 hours/day.
- If you are assaulted and would like to press charges against your assailant by reporting the crime to law enforcement, the closest Waltham police station is located at 155 Lexington St. Waltham
Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in:
- A verbal warning
- Immediate removal from the event without refund
- Permanent ban from future BSF and SyC events
- Notification of relevant authorities when appropriate
TOGETHER, WE DANCE BETTER
Thank you for helping us make BSFan empowering, respectful, and joyful space. By attending, you are agreeing to uphold this Code of Conduct, protecting the integrity of our community and ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe.
Thank you
Boston Salsa Festival Team
August 2025