At our events, we enforce a strict policy to ensure a safe space for all dancers and attendees. Any attendee found to act in discordance with these policies may risk being restricted access to our events without refund.

We thank you in advance for following our policies and helping to make Toronto Bal Weekend a safe, supportive, and fun event for all!

Harrassment and violence

Abusive, aggressive, violent or harassing behavior is not acceptable. If we are made aware of any unacceptable behaviour we will ask you to leave the event, and we may prohibit your return at our own discretion. We understand that you may offend someone unintentionally, and we remind dancers that they are nonetheless responsible for their own behaviour.

Code of Conduct

Toronto Bal Weekend is open to everyone, regardless of sex, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, physical appearance, ability, age, or any other aspect of identity. We ask you to show the same respect to every attendee of our events.

• During a dance, make sure that your partner is comfortable with the connection,  movements and positions of closer embrace. Ask for verbal consent.

• Aerials and drops (where a person takes the weight of another) are not appropriate for social dancing. They are permitted during jam circles and specific competitions. Make sure that you have already practiced these moves with your partner and that you have their consent before executing them.

• During a dance, if you feel uncomfortable (whether the discomfort is physical, psychological, or due to an injury) do not hesitate to inform your dance partner. If needed, do not hesitate to stop the dance. You are also allowed to refuse to dance with anyone. You may explain why, but you do not have to.

• Everyone has the choice to decline a dance without having to explain why, no matter the reason. If someone has declined to dance with you, do not take it personally and make sure to respect the other person’s decision.

• Make sure to choose a spot on the dance floor where there is sufficient space to dance. Both partners should take responsibility for their own security, by paying attention to your surroundings you can avoid injuring yourself or others. If you accidentally kick someone or collide with someone else, please apologize and make sure the other person is ok.

• Take care of your personal hygiene before coming to the studio. It is recommended to take a shower, wear deodorant, brush your teeth and bring a change of clothes.

• Do not correct others’ dancing unless you were specifically asked for feedback or if their dancing may cause an injury. If you are in a situation where you are giving someone feedback, please tell them in a way that is respectful and constructive.

COVID-19 and physical illness

While masks and immunization against COVID-19 is not required for our events, we ask that individuals who are feeling unwell, have symptoms of COVID-19 or any other physical illness, or have been in contact with an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 abstain from attending our events out of consideration for other participants.

Resources

We understand that disclosing an uncomfortable situation or a complaint can be challenging, and we do not wish to place responsibility for the creation of a safe space on those who have been harmed. Those that do choose to bring up a concern to Toronto Bal Weekend leadership will be heard, believed, and respected. Whenever possible we will provide options about whether, where, and how their disclosure is shared, and to have choices about what, if any, action is taken.

The leadership at Toronto Bal Weekend is also available for conversations about situations that are unclear, may or may not be inappropriate, are ambiguous or are difficult to understand.

What you can do if you have a negative experience at Toronto Bal Weekend?

1. If safe, talk to the person about their behaviour;

2. Talk to a teacher at the event;

3. Email at support@torontobalweekend.com with any questions, concerns, or complaints.

Terms and Conditions

1. General

1.1 These Terms and Conditions govern the registration and participation in the Toronto Bal Weekend (“Event”). By registering for the Event, you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
1.2 The Event is organized by Michael Huynh (“Organizer”).
1.3 The Event is open to individuals of all ages. Participants under 18 years of age (“Minors”) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (“Guardian”) at all times during the Event.

2. Registration and Payment

2.1 Registration is required to participate in the Event. Registration is considered complete only upon full payment of the registration fee.
2.2 All registration fees are non-refundable, except in the case of event cancellation by the Organizer.
2.3 Registrations are non-transferable unless otherwise approved by the Organizer.
2.4 The Organizer reserves the right to close registration at any time if the Event reaches capacity.

3. Cancellation and Refund Policy

3.1 The Organizer reserves the right to cancel or postpone the Event due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation, participants will be notified as soon as possible, and registration fees will be refunded.
3.2 Participants who wish to cancel their registration may do so by notifying the Organizer in writing. The Organizer may consider full or partial refunds on a case-by-case basis in extenuating circumstances (e.g., medical emergencies, family emergencies).
3.3 In the case of postponement, the registration will automatically transfer to the new date. If the participant cannot attend the rescheduled Event, they may request a refund.

4. Code of Conduct

4.1 The Event is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants. Harassment, discrimination, or any form of inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.
4.2 Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and responsible manner at all times during the Event. Failure to comply may result in removal from the Event without refund.
4.3 If you experience or witness any inappropriate behaviour, please report it to an Event staff member immediately.
4.4 Participants are expected to read and follow the dance code of conduct: https://www.torontobalweekend.com/policies

5. Health and Safety

5.1 Participants are responsible for their own health and well-being during the Event. The Organizer strongly encourages participants to consult with their physician before participating in any physical activities, including dancing.
5.2 The Organizer will follow all relevant public health guidelines in relation to COVID-19 or other health concerns. Participants are expected to comply with any safety protocols in place during the Event.
5.3 By participating in the Event, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks of physical activity, including the risk of injury. The Organizer is not responsible for any injury or illness that may occur during the Event.

6. Media Release

6.1 By registering for the Event, participants consent to being photographed, filmed, or otherwise recorded during the Event. These recordings may be used by the Organizer for promotional purposes, including but not limited to social media, websites, and marketing materials.
6.2 Participants who do not wish to be photographed or recorded must inform the Organizer in writing prior to the Event.

7. Liability Waiver

7.1 The Organizer is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by participants or their property during the Event.
7.2 Participants agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Organizer, its employees, agents, and volunteers from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from their participation in the Event.

8. Privacy Policy

8.1 The Organizer respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Any personal data provided during the registration process will be used solely for the purpose of organizing and managing the Event.
8.2 The Organizer will not share your personal information with third parties without your consent, except as required by law.

9. Governing Law

9.1 These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Province of Ontario.
9.2 Any disputes arising out of or in connection with these Terms and Conditions or the Event shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Ontario.

10. Amendments

10.1 The Organizer reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will be communicated to registered participants via email or on the Event website.

Toronto Bal Weekend
Michael Huynh
Date: Sunday, Jun, 15th