Community standards
At Jazztime, we exist to preserve and pass on Lindy Hop and Jazz Dance, both of which are Black American art forms with a rich cultural legacy. We approach this work with respect for these communities and traditions.
Social dance is rooted in connection and community. As a group brought together by a shared love of this art form, we strive to create a space where people from all backgrounds can learn, connect, and belong. We welcome dancers of all genders, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, religions, ages, and backgrounds. We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or bigotry.
We ask everyone to help build a culture of respect, consent, curiosity, and care. Please read the sections below to help us create the best community possible:
Community norms
Thursday Night Swing Dance is a party! Like any party, it’s all about how you show up. Be brave and ask people to dance! We recommend indicating if would like to lead, follow, switch, or solo jam and asking what your partner prefers. Accept "no" gracefully and keep asking. It’s more fun to dance with someone who’s excited and ready to dance with you too! If you'd like help navigating the social floor, reach out to any Jazztime instructor.
Community Night is what you make of it. Come with something you'd like to work on, ask people in the room to practice, or invite a friend ahead of time. It's a great place to try out a practice partnership. It's also encouraged to just hang out, play board games, and socialize!
Welcome new dancers. Remember what it felt like to be new. Introduce yourself, invite others to dance, and help make the community approachable.
Be curious, not judgmental. Everyone is learning. Give people room to grow and assume good intentions when possible.
Take breaks when you need them. It's okay to sit out a song, leave early, or say no to a dance. Take care of yourself.
Support the music. Listen to the band, clap between songs, and remember that musicians are a beloved part of our community!
Treat everyone with respect. Harassment, discrimination, and bigotry are not tolerated.
Practice consent and clear communication. Respect boundaries and accept "no" gracefully.
We are not a speed dating app. Lasting friendships and relationships often grow out of dance communities, but they take time. Please avoid unwanted romantic attention and remember that everyone is here first and foremost to dance.
Take care of your hygiene. Swing dancing is active. Bring extra shirts, wear deodorant, and avoid strong scents.
Leave the teaching to the teachers. Please do not give unsolicited advice on the dance floor or in class. If you need help, ask a Jazztime instructor or staff member.
Keep the floor safe. Control your movement, adjust to the available space, and avoid kicking or colliding with other dancers. No air steps on the social floor. Air steps are only permitted in jam circles or performances, and only with the explicit consent of your partner.
Respect the decisions of organizers. Follow the directions of instructors, DJs, musicians, volunteers, and staff. Jazztime reserves the right to refuse service or ask anyone to leave classes, dances, or events.
Violations may result in removal. Anyone who violates this Code of Conduct may be asked to leave without warning or refund.
Code of Conduct
reporting concerns
If you experience or witness behavior that violates our Community Standards, we encourage you to let us know through one of these methods:
Speak with a Jazztime staff member in person.
Submit a confidential report using the form below. You may leave your name and email blank if you wish to remain anonymous.
Email us directly at info@jazztimeseattle.com
Reports will be handled with care and discretion. We will consult with the reporting party throughout the process and, whenever possible, keep you informed about actions being taken so that you can make decisions that support your safety and comfort.