Code of Conduct

Purpose & Commitment

The Calgary Dance Stampede is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants, in full compliance with Canadian law. This Code of Conduct establishes clear expectations for behaviour and ethical responsibility for everyone attending, including dancers, attendees, staff, volunteers, contractors, and judges.

Our goals are to:

  • Promote respect, inclusion, and professionalism
  • Protect participants from harassment, discrimination, and unsafe conduct
  • Provide clear reporting and accountability processes
  • Align with Canadian legal standards and international best practices in the dance and performing arts community

General Standards of Behaviour

All participants must:

  • Conduct themselves with professionalism, respect for others, and integrity at all times
  • Uphold principles of consent, inclusion, and personal safety in all interactions
  • Treat fellow participants, staff, volunteers, and hotel personnel with courtesy and respect

Compliance with Law & Safety Rules

Participants must comply with:

  • All applicable Canadian laws and municipal bylaws
  • Human rights and occupational health and safety standards
  • Venue safety rules, fire codes, and emergency procedures
  • Lawful instructions from event staff, hotel staff, or public authorities

Non-Discrimination, Harassment & Violence

The Calgary Dance Stampede has zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or violence. This includes behaviour based on:

  • Race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion or creed
  • Age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
  • Marital or family status, parental or caregiver status
  • Physical or mental disability
  • indigenous identity
  • Military or veteran status, genetic characteristics
  • Or any other protected ground under Canadian law

Harassment includes unwelcome conduct, bullying, intimidation, or offensive comments, whether in person, in writing, or online.

Respect for Property & Privacy

Participants must:

  • Respect the property and belongings of all attendees, visitors, staff, and hotel guests
  • Not engage in theft, damage, or unauthorized use of property
  • Refrain from unauthorized recording, photography, or distribution of others’ images, performances, or choreography without consent

Gambling

Gambling of any form is prohibited within event or hotel premises, in accordance with venue policy and provincial law.

Language & Communication

Participants must:

  • Refrain from abusive language, bullying, or derogatory comments
  • Avoid excessive profanity or disruptive behaviour
  • Communicate respectfully, both in person and through the events social media platforms.

Drugs, Alcohol & Public Conduct

  • Participants must not be intoxicated to the point of impairment, disturbance, or unsafe behaviour in any public or event space
  • Illegal drug use is strictly prohibited
  • Event staff, volunteers, and contractors may not consume alcohol or intoxicants during assigned shifts

UCWDC Compliance

  • UCWDC Associate Members must comply with both this Code of Conduct and the UCWDC Associate Member Code of Conduct
  • UCWDC Judges must comply with both this Code and the UCWDC Judge Certification Code of Conduct. In cases of conflict, the stricter standard applies

Expectations for Staff, Volunteers & Contractors

Those contracted to serve in official roles must:

  • Arrive on time and dressed appropriately for assignments
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive or privileged information
  • Abstain from alcohol or intoxicants during shifts
  • Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential bias

Enforcement & Disciplinary Action

Participants who engage in unacceptable behaviour, harassment, discrimination, or unsafe conduct may face consequences, including:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension or loss of participation privileges
  • Removal from the event without refund
  • Referral to law enforcement, where applicable

Reporting Concerns

Participants may confidentially report concerns to designated event staff or directors

All reports will be handled respectfully, promptly, and in accordance with Canadian privacy law

Protection from Retaliation

No participant will face retaliation for reporting a concern in good faith

Accessibility & Accommodations

The Calgary Dance Stampede is committed to accessibility. Reasonable accommodations will be made to ensure full participation for individuals with disabilities or other needs. Participants are encouraged to notify staff in advance if accommodations are required.

Service Animals

In compliance with Canadian law, participants who require a service animal are welcome to have them accompany them in all event spaces. Service animals must remain under the handler’s care and control at all times and must not disturb or interfere with spectators, dancers, or event activities. Staff, volunteers, and attendees must not distract, interfere with, or deny access to any participant accompanied by a service animal. Emotional support animals that are not trained as service animals are not covered under this policy and may be subject to venue restrictions.

Review & Updates

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to remain aligned with Canadian legal standards and best practices within the dance and performing arts communities.

 

Last Updated: 2025-09-10