Vision, mission and values
We build and foster a creative environment for the meeting of peoples who celebrate African American jazz culture: dance, music and arts in the Swedish countryside.
Herräng Dance Camp is an immersive experience that educates, entertains, and is a source of inspiration for the novice enthusiast to the accomplished dancer. A small seaside village in Sweden is the unique setting for a gathering of people from all over the world who love African-American Jazz Dance and celebrate its legacy through time.
Everyone has a right to express themselves through the art of dance, and a right to be recognized as an independent and equal human being, treated with dignity and respect. Dance can build growing, thriving, strong individuals as well as communities. Dance can boost engagement with a wider social agenda. Dance unites.
We really believe that dance (and being a part of a dance community) can contribute to a greater sense of belonging. We strive to credit the originators of jazz dance, highlighting its roots and keeping connected to the history (past and present) of Black culture. We will always acknowledge this in our work, and support the Black community.
HDC appreciates all forms of artistic expression, but has a special focus on the teachings of early 1900’s African-American jazz dances, as well as the modern dances inspired by them. We celebrate diversity. We really like dancing, and we love jazz dances in particular.
Code of Conduct (Short version)
Herräng Dance Camp is a shared living, learning, and dancing space. By being here, you help create a space that is safe, respectful, and inspiring for everyone. We all share responsibility for how we act and how we affect each other. This is a short version of our Code of Conduct. You can read the full version here.
How we dance together
We treat everyone with dignity and respect.
We meet each other as equal human beings. Everyone deserves to feel welcome and valued.
We include and respect everyone.
We welcome diversity and do not accept harassment or discrimination of any kind, including on the grounds of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, social origin, physical appearance, body shape, or size.
We celebrate jazz dance and its roots.
We honour the African American origins of jazz dance, credit its creators, and respect its history and living culture.
We stay curious.
When something feels unclear, we ask. Curiosity builds connection — assumptions don’t.
We talk with each other.
We address things directly and kindly, stick to facts, and avoid rumors.
We take responsibility for our impact.
Impact matters more than intention. If we cause harm, we listen, reflect, and adjust.
We listen and we grow.
If someone tells us we caused harm or discomfort, we listen, reflect, and work to do better.
We have each other’s backs.
We look out for one another, step in when needed, and help keep each other safe.
We help create a safe camp together.
Safety is a shared responsibility. We look out for each other and speak up when something feels wrong.
We respect boundaries – on and off the dance floor.
Everyone chooses if, when, how, and with whom they dance. A “no” is always okay.
We respect boundaries.
We listen for yes, no, and hesitation, and we adjust with care.
We communicate in dancing.
We ask about close embrace, dips, lifts, or big moves, and we pay attention to our partner’s comfort.
We are caring dance partners.
We notice fatigue, pain, or discomfort, and we adapt, pause, or stop when needed.
We take responsibility for ourselves.
We are aware of our words, actions, energy, and impact. We take breaks when needed and look after ourselves.
We look after health and wellbeing.
We don’t dance when sick or injured, we wash hands, rest, eat, and take care of our bodies.
We protect minors.
We look out for young participants and take special care to keep them safe.
We act responsibly around alcohol and follow the law.
If we drink, we do so with care and respect for others. We follow Swedish law, including zero tolerance for illegal drugs.
We care for people and our common space.
We help keep belongings safe, support each other, and respect Herräng and its community.
We ask for help and we offer help.
If something happens, we contact staff or the care team. Reporting concerns helps keep everyone safe.