CODE OF CONDUCT

The Oklahoma swing syndicate (TOSS)
Code of Conduct

TOSS is dedicated to providing a safe social dance experience for everyone regardless of dance ability, gender, race, age, sexual orientation or religion.

The “Code of Conduct” no-tolerance policy is our commitment in safeguarding the TOSS dance and event experience.

TOSS supports the idea that dance roles (lead and follow) which are not tied to gender. This concept has a foundation in our dance history during the 1920s-1940s. We encourage all dancers to dance their preferred role, focused on having fun. We encourage all dancers to avoid assumptions regarding dance roles and to check in with their partners about their preferred role.

While attending TOSS, members and dance guests are expected to understand and accept a no-tolerance policy prohibiting harassment, bullying, inappropriate dress, concealed fire-arms, acts of violence, sexual predation, or inappropriate behavior.

NO LIFTS OR AERIALS OF ANY KIND! This is not a TOSS policy, this is the policy of SouthMinster Presbyterian Church and must be followed. Ariels should be limited to performances and are not allowed on the social dance floor. Some low dips are also discouraged due the risk of injury to the participant and others in the area. For insurance reasons, instruction and practice of ariels should be limited to workshops with TOSS approved instructors and properly trained spotters.

Unsafe Movement: While there is always some risk associated with any level of physical activity, TOSS is committed to preventing injuries before they happen. Unsafe movement is defined as any movement that puts anyone at an increased risk of physical injury of the participants or others around them. This includes, but is not limited to, yanking, jerking your partner around, unnecessarily forceful movement when leading or following (risk of shoulder, arm, and upper-back injuries), bending over your partner during a dip when leading (risk of lower back injuries), sudden unexpected shift of weight when following (don’t dip yourself), and/or any lift where both of your partner’s feet go above your knees. If you are unsure what constitutes unsafe movement, please ask any instructor or TOSS board member.

Uncomfortable Behavior: If somebody at a TOSS event makes you feel uncomfortable while dancing or otherwise, please speak with someone working at TOSS for the evening (more information at the end of the doc). We will be glad to help when we can in a respectful, non-confrontational manner.

Harassment: Harassment includes both physical and verbal behavior. It also includes, but is not limited to harassment about characteristics or traits, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, photography/recording, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome attention. When asked to stop any harassing behaviour participants are expected to comply immediately! TOSS may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender, or expulsion from the event with no refund. If you are being harassed, and/or notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact any TOSS board member immediately. Contact the front desk volunteer or any of the instructors or DJs if you need assistance locating the TOSS board member on duty.

No alcohol, firearms, profanity, or drugs will be tolerated. Failure to comply will result in immediate dismissal from the premises.

The TOSS board member on duty will be happy to help participants resolve the situation, provide escorts, contact local law enforcement if necessary, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment in order to promote a safe environment over the duration. At our events, TOSS has a “Board Lead” representative at every dance event. The Board Lead is empowered by the Board of Directors to enforce the Code of Conduct to the extent of asking the offending members or guests to leave the premises. The Board Lead files an incident report for review by the entire Board of Directors and will investigate and report all serious violations to the proper authorities. Violating the “Code of Conduct” may result in a loss of membership or access to TOSS dance events.

Individuals may use the “TOSS Incident Report” available at the front desk to file observed or possible violations of the expressed TOSS standards and rules.

Here’s how to report issues:

Notify someone at the entry desk, DJ, teacher, and/or anyone with a TOSS name tag on.

Make sure that a board member and/or board lead is identified and given the information.

TOSS’ mission and goal is for all people to come and have a wonderful time at our venue. Please enjoy the music, the company and the dancing while abiding by our and the Southminster Presbyterian Churches expectations.