CODE OF CONDUCT

Xaxado ASD APS promotes Brazilian culture in its many forms, encouraging connection and meaningful encounters among people in an atmosphere of calmness and respect.

For these encounters to be authentic, a safer space is essential: an environment where everyone can feel welcomed and free to express themselves, to dance and shine, feeling physically and emotionally at ease.

This safer space is the responsibility of everyone who takes part in it. By joining Xaxado ASD APS, you agree to follow this Code of Conduct.​​

1. Respect

Treat everyone with respect. Dance, and interact, in a respectful way, recognizing both your own boundaries and those of others, physically and emotionally.

Avoid assuming dance roles based on gender (e.g., woman = follower).
Do not engage in any form of physical, verbal, or psychological aggression.
 

2. Inclusivity

Do not engage in any form of discrimination or oppression toward individuals or groups based on gender identity, ability, ethnicity, or geographic origin.​

3. Active and Enthusiastic Consent

Only “yes” means yes, and it is always okay to say “no.”

Active and enthusiastic consent is expressed with willingness, clarity, and desire.

Invite people to dance verbally: avoid tapping them on the shoulder or touching their body without prior consent.
Respect and accept refusals calmly.

Commit to communicating a refusal respectfully, but without feeling obliged to give explanations: a “no” is always valid.

Dance and connection are much more enjoyable when there is enthusiasm and participation from everyone involved. Promote a dance culture free from pressure and rich in communication.

4. Active Listening

Listen to yourself and to others. Practice active listening that is non-judgmental and curious.

Pay attention to people’s signals and body language. If you suspect your partner or someone else feels uncomfortable, ask if everything is okay.

Do not ignore inappropriate behavior.
 

5. Assertive Communication & Positive Language

Promote open and assertive communication: express your boundaries and ask about and respect others’ boundaries regarding physical contact, role preferences, dance style, and level. Adjust accordingly.

Use respectful language and be mindful of how you interact with others, including comments, requests, and compliments.

Do not assume others’ intentions: always check, verbally if needed, and make sure you are aligned before acting (a dance can be sensual without implying intentions beyond the dance floor).
 

6. Participation & Responsibility

Support and promote the safe space, spread good practices, and share community joy and enthusiasm.

Welcome newcomers into the community, helping them feel included and free to reach out to you for help or support.

Do not downplay or ignore inappropriate behavior.

If you witness inappropriate, abusive, or aggressive behavior, you can intervene in different ways:

• Directly: speak up beside the person in difficulty (e.g., “What’s happening here?”, “This is not okay”, “They said no.”)

• Distract: interrupt the situation casually (e.g., “Can you help me with this?”, “Will you come get some air with me?”)

• Involve: inform someone else (organizers, staff, security, friends…)

• Check in: make sure the person is okay afterward (e.g., “Are you okay?”, “I saw what happened. That’s not acceptable”, “Do you need anything?”)
   

7. Seeking Help

If you experience inappropriate, abusive, or aggressive behavior, inform the organizers or volunteers and ask for support at any time. It is never too late to report abuse. We are here to listen, even when it is difficult.
 

8. Personal Care & Hygiene

Take care of your body, as well as others’. Maintain personal hygiene, bring a change of clothes for intense social dancing, use deodorant and mints, your dance partners will thank you.


Failure to adhere to or respect this Code of Conduct may result in exclusion from the association.

Any harassing and/or aggressive individuals may also be reported to other Forró communities.

Xaxado ASD APS offers full support to anyone wishing to pursue a report, including formal action, in collaboration with the relevant authorities.
 

The well-being of the community is everyone’s responsibility. Help us build a free and safe space for all.

Thank you.