Code of Conduct

A Space for Everyone

The Cosmic Connection is built on the same feeling as those childhood nights under the stars — a place where you felt safe, seen, and free to be exactly who you are. We are committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and welcoming experience for every single person who walks through our doors.

This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees, competitors, teachers, volunteers, and staff — without exception, for the full duration of the Event and in all associated spaces including the venue, social areas, and online event communities.

By registering for or attending the Event, you agree to uphold these standards. Violations may result in immediate removal from the Event without refund, and a ban from future editions.

Be Your Best Self

We ask every attendee to hold themselves to the following:

• Respect boundaries and ask before you dance. A polite ask and a gracious acceptance of "no" is the foundation of every great partnership on and off the floor.
• Honour every dancer's choice of role. We welcome all role expressions regardless of gender, identity, or experience level. No one owes anyone a dance.
• Keep the floor safe. Be aware of the space around you. Aerial moves, drops, and dips are for performances and designated spaces — not social floors.
• Leave the teaching to the teachers. Unsolicited corrections and advice during social dances are unwelcome, however well-intentioned. If someone wants feedback, they'll ask.
• Take care of your hygiene. We're dancing close — please arrive fresh and bring a change of clothes. Be mindful of strong fragrances, as others may have sensitivities.
• Welcome newcomers. Remember what it felt like to walk into a room full of strangers who all seemed to know each other. Be the person who made you feel welcome the first time.
• Treat staff and venue personnel with respect. Our team and the venue staff are working hard to create the experience you came for. Please treat them with the same kindness you'd want in return.
• Stay home if you're unwell. If you're experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, the kindest thing you can do for this community is to sit this one out. Contact us — we'll do our best to help.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment

The Cosmic Connection has a strict zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any kind. The following behaviours are unacceptable and will result in immediate action:

• Offensive, derogatory, or discriminatory comments related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, ethnicity, religion, or any other characteristic.
• Sexual language, imagery, or advances in any event space — including workshops, social floors, and online channels.
• Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following.
• Photography or recording of any person without their explicit consent.
• Sustained disruption of classes, performances, or social dancing.
• Unwanted physical contact of any kind.
• Any behaviour that makes another person feel unsafe, unwelcome, or disrespected.

Reporting & Assistance

If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it. You will be heard and taken seriously.

• Approach any member of staff — they are identifiable by their lanyards and will direct you to the right person immediately.
• Visit the registration or info desk, which is staffed throughout the event and is your primary point of contact for any concern.
• Contact the Event organiser directly via the contact page.

All reports are treated with discretion and confidentiality. You will not be judged, dismissed, or made to feel like a burden for coming forward. Protecting this community is everyone's responsibility — and ours first.

Enforcement & Consequences

The organisers reserve the right to take any action deemed necessary and appropriate in response to a Code of Conduct violation. This may include:

• A private verbal warning and request to modify behaviour.
• Removal from a specific class, workshop, or social.
• Immediate removal from the Event without refund.
• A permanent ban from future editions of The Cosmic Connection.
• Referral to venue security or local law enforcement where the behaviour is potentially illegal.

The decision of the organisers in all conduct matters is final. We do not enter into public debate regarding enforcement decisions.

Alcohol & Substances

• Alcohol is available for purchase in licensed venue areas only. It may not be brought in from outside.
• You are welcome to enjoy a drink responsibly. You are not welcome to become a safety concern for others. Attendees who are visibly intoxicated may be asked to leave the dance floor or the venue.
• Serving alcohol to anyone who is visibly intoxicated is prohibited, and venue staff are authorised to refuse service.
• Illegal substances are strictly prohibited on all Event premises and in all associated spaces. Anyone found in possession of or distributing illegal substances will be removed immediately and the matter referred to the appropriate authorities.
• We hold no judgement toward anyone's personal choices outside the Event — but inside it, everyone's safety comes first.