Black Dance Change Makers is designed for people who want to be a part of an ever growing, ever changing, ever learning community. We are always learning and unlearning, and although we have so much in common, we all have implicit biases, so unfortunately nothing we can do will make this space 100% safe for everyone.

What we can promise though, as true Change Makers, is to commit to doing our best to build a space where people can bring their whole selves, and where there is safety in the ability to speak truths, and hold each other accountable.

In an effort for us to build this space, we have outlined our House Rules below.

As we move and grow together, so will our needs and expectations of each other. Change Makers are expected to honor the community guidelines, as they continuously shift to better serve everyone in our community.

Table of Contents

Intent ≠ Impact

  1. At Change Makers, we want to assume good intentions, and be open to people not saying the right thing all the time.
  2. BUT/AND, we have to also be accountable to our impact, which is the very real trauma and violence that can happen when people say or do harmful things, even if it was unintentional.

What happens at Change Makers, stays at Change Makers

  1. What’s said here, stays here. What’s learned here, leaves here.
  2. Members will not share the personal narratives and opinions of others without getting explicit permission. However, the lessons learned and understanding gained from our storytelling can be carried into all of our experiences.
  3. This allows us to share useful information while respecting everyone's right to privacy.
  4. There should be no recording or photo taking at any Change Makers meetings or events without explicit permission.

<aside> ☝🏾 Please note that facilitators may record events for various reasons, such as accessibility. You will always be notified in advance.

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The Houseguest Rule

  1. Always knock before entering.
  2. Ask permission to ask questions about another person’s identity or experience.
    1. “Would you be willing to tell me more about…?”
  3. “If they show you in, you may enter, but if the door is closed, do not go in.

Flow In / Flow Out