West Michigan Latin Dance – Code of Conduct

Clear rules. Safe fun. Everyone welcome.

Jump to

  • Quick guide

  • Respect & invitations

  • Safety & space

  • Drinks & dancing

  • Staying fresh (includes health)

  • During lessons

  • Community vibe

  • If it’s your first time

  • Our promise (includes when in doubt)

  • Photography & video

  • Reporting & safety

  • Spanish summary – Resumen en español

  • Contact

Quick guide

  • Ask before you dance.

  • A no is fine. Say thanks and move on.

  • Keep it safe. No surprise dips, lifts, or tricks.

  • Enjoy your drinks but stay steady.

  • Stay clean, fresh, and kind.

  • Let staff know if something feels off.

Respect & invitations

  • Always ask before dancing: “Would you like to dance?” works great.

  • Anyone can ask. Anyone can decline.

  • A no is complete—no pressure or questions.

  • Smile, say thanks, and move on.

  • If someone seems uncomfortable, back off immediately.

  • Compliments are fine. Touching without consent is not.

  • Keep it fun, not flirty unless it’s mutual.

Safety & space

  • No dips, tricks, or close holds without clear consent.

  • If consent changes mid-dance, stop immediately.

  • Watch your surroundings and other dancers.

  • Keep moves compact on crowded floors.

  • Keep bags, drinks, and phones off the floor.

  • Traveling dances move counterclockwise.

  • Report spills or unsafe behavior to staff.

  • No teaching on the floor unless you’re an instructor.

Drinks & dancing

  • Most venues serve alcohol. Have fun and stay responsible.

  • If you feel unsteady or lose balance, take a break.

  • No drugs. No dancing while visibly impaired.

Staying fresh (includes health)

  • Shower or freshen up before arriving.

  • Use deodorant and breath mints.

  • Avoid strong perfume or cologne.

  • Bring a towel or extra shirt if you sweat.

  • Wear secure shoes that protect your feet.

  • If you feel sick, skip the event.

  • Wash your hands and cover coughs.

During lessons

  • Be on time and ready to learn.

  • Rotate partners when asked.

  • Don’t correct others unless you’re teaching.

  • Ask questions during designated times.

Community vibe

  • WMLD is about connection, culture, and joy.

  • We welcome all levels, backgrounds, and identities.

  • Respect the music and its roots—salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia, cha cha, kizomba.

  • Bring your best energy and help others feel at home.

If it’s your first time

  • Come early for the lesson—it’s the best way to meet people.

  • Rotate partners to build confidence and connection.

  • Ask questions—everyone was new once.

Our promise (includes when in doubt)

  • If you’re unsure what’s okay, ask first.

  • If something feels off, talk to staff. We’re here to help.

  • We’ll keep building a safe, fun, and inclusive community where everyone can dance freely.

  • We listen, respond fast, and keep things positive.

Photography & video

  • Photos and videos help share the vibe.

  • Some venues record content. Tell staff if you want to opt out where possible.

  • If you prefer not to be filmed, tell a staff member.

  • Ask before recording close-ups.

Reporting & safety

  • No harassment, stalking, or discrimination of any kind.

  • Talk to a WMLD staff member right away if something happens.

  • You can also email [email protected].

  • We’ll act quickly and privately.

  • Repeated or serious violations can lead to removal or bans.

Spanish summary – Resumen en español

  • Pide permiso antes de bailar. Un no es no.

  • Mantén distancia y respeto.

  • Evita dips o trucos sin avisar.

  • Disfruta tus bebidas con responsabilidad.

  • Mantén buena higiene y buena vibra.

Contact

  • Email: [email protected]

  • Social media handle: @westmichiganlatindance

  • Website: westmichiganlatindance.org

  • Phone: (616) 739-6202

Anything shared with us can remain confidential.

5th St Hall

701 5th St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

The B.O.B.
(at Home & Ashton)

20 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Nick Finks

3965 W River Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321, USA

Bostwick Lake Inn

8521 Belding Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341, USA

Phone (Call or Text): (616) 739-6202

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