Zero Tolerance for Harm: Our Commitment to a Safe Dance Environment

When we started Shadow Puppetz, we did so with the intention of creating a space where Chicago dancers can come meet on level ground, practice and share openly, learn and grow as a community, and celebrate who we are safely. We believe that great dancing comes from exploration, and that exploration can only happen in a space that values trust, respect, and transparency.

Recently, it has come to our attention that there are some dancers whose behavior has been destructive to these ends, particularly regarding the comfort and safety of women in the scene. The freestyle street dance scene is disproportionally male, perhaps due to behaviors of this nature. So, let us not mince words:

To the problematic elements within the scene, you will not be tolerated. Regardless of your clout, the work you put into the scene, or your level of involvement, we will not accept your presence. You will not be welcome at Shadow Puppetz sessions, workshops, or events. We encourage you to seek help to understand and adjust your behavior, becoming part of the solution rather than the problem.

To all of the women in the Chicago dance scene, we want you to know that we are committed to making Shadow Puppetz spaces and events a safe place for everyone to gather and share openly. We encourage that your safety and comfort be an ongoing discussion as we move forward. We hope that greater transparency and accountability will create a healthier dance scene.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just a dance issue. It’s a matter of basic human dignity. We must all constantly strive to do better. We hope that together we can heal our scene, prioritize what matters, and turn our gaze back towards the dance we all share and love.

Best regards,

Shadow Puppetz