Code of Conduct

We welcome everyone.

This is a space where everyone can feel at ease, celebrating life with respect for others and guided by values of friendship, community, and a family spirit.

We draw inspiration from the Juke Joint bars - essential spaces where blues culture grew and evolved over 100 years ago. We aim to recreate that spirit - authentic, human, and full of soul - adapted to the present.

We are committed to developing this work with care and responsibility, keeping our eyes open and ears attentive to the needs of the community. We strive to proactively build a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all.

We believe that all participants have the right to feel comfortable and safe at all times. We recognize that each person brings different experiences, beliefs, and perspectives on what is acceptable - therefore, we created this

Code of Conduct to ensure a shared understanding and a positive collective experience.

a) At BJJW, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.

b) We celebrate diversity, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, age, physical ability, or dance experience.

c) Respect is essential, both on and off the dance floor.

Take care of yourself and others

Dance is about connection, but also responsibility:

Pay attention to your body, your partner, and the space around you.
Rest, stay hydrated, and respect your limits.
Maintain spatial awareness and look out for those around you.

Roles in dance are open

In blues, roles are not gendered, and we want to carry this through completely.

Anyone can lead, follow, or explore both.
Dance is a conversation—listening and responding is essential.

Avoid assuming someone’s role based on appearance. Asking is always welcome.

Spread joy

This event thrives on the energy each person brings:

Invite someone to dance, smile, celebrate the music, support musicians and DJs, encourage new dancers, and include those on the edges of the dance floor.
Your attitude makes a difference, and by the end of the day, someone will feel happier because of it.

Personal care

We dance in close proximity—let’s take care of one another:

Maintain good personal hygiene, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid accessories that may cause discomfort or injury.
Bring a change of clothes if needed.

Growth with respect

Learning and evolving are part of the journey:

Reflect on your dancing and on the community.
Avoid giving unsolicited feedback on the social dance floor, except in situations involving safety or discomfort.

If you see something, say something

We all contribute to a safe space. If you witness or experience inappropriate behavior:

a) Ensure the safety of the affected person
b) If possible, intervene respectfully
c) Reach out to the event Care Team

The Care Team will be identifiable and available to help.

Inappropriate behavior may result in a warning or removal from the event.

Our philosophy

Inspired by blues culture, especially the Juke Joint bars, and by the strength of community:

“Bamu zunta mon pa fê tud’ kuá ku nom mecê, ku alegria y suceso.” (in Forro, from São Tomé and Príncipe)

Meaning: Let’s join hands to do what we deserve, with joy and success.

Celebrate life

The Blues Juke Joint Weekend is more than a festival—it is a space for gathering, expression, and connection.

Celebrating life through dance means living in the moment, feeling the music, and building and strengthening community together.

We at BJJW thank all participants and friends who make this gathering a true moment of celebration.
Thank you.