The Stygian Collective is a space that welcomes all dancers interested in Metal, Dark, Gothic, and otherwise Alternative Bellydance, from every background, from all countries. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, religion, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. We believe our diversity gives us strength, and require all members to treat each other’s backgrounds with respect. A good rule is “your rights end where mine begin; your right to throw a punch ends at my nose.”

In the Stygian Collective private community, there is a lot of personal information shared. Not only do we ask for feedback and help from one another on our art, we also share our troubles, and have a space dedicated for mental/emotional health support. We encourage members to approach one another with good faith and openness, while also recognizing that impact matters and accountability is important when harm occurs (see section 5 for further details). In general, we expect discussions and conversations within the Stygian community to stay private - however, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed in situations involving safety concerns, threats, or legal obligations.

Stygian Dance maintains a zero tolerance policy for harassment, discrimination, hate speech, or sexual misconduct of any kind. Harassment includes unwelcome verbal, physical, or visual conduct based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic, as well as behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or unsafe environment. Sexual misconduct includes unwanted sexual comments, advances, contact, coercion, or exploitation. Physical contact within classes, rehearsals, performances, or events requires explicit, informed consent from all parties each time it occurs. Costuming, choreography, performance themes, or aesthetics do not imply consent to touch, sexualization, or boundary crossing. Stygian does not permit the use, display, or promotion of hate symbols or imagery associated with extremist or supremacist ideologies. While our aesthetic may draw from gothic or metal influences, imagery tied to real world harm, oppression, or hate has no place in this community.

Even for members that identify primarily as students or beginners, we do expect a level of professionalism when interacting with the world as a representative of the Stygian Collective. We expect members to demonstrate the values of integrity, honesty, compassion, and accountability, and to behave professionally when interacting with the dance community at large. Members are expected to engage in mature, respectful, and accountable behavior consistent with this Code of Conduct.

In the event that two members come into conflict, we ask that the members resolve their conflicts privately, either between them, or in case it is necessary, with a neutral third-party moderator (either the Director of the Stygian Collective or another member of the Stygian Team). If mediation is not possible, please bring the conflict directly to the Director for resolution. Members are expected to address conflicts through private resolution or formal reporting channels before escalating publicly, unless safety concerns require immediate outside intervention. Conduct outside of our private channels that materially impacts the safety, reputation, or functioning of the Collective may be subject to review by the Stygian Team.

Members who are unable or unwilling to follow this Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action. Consequences may include suspension from events, suspension from the private community, or removal from membership. Disciplinary decisions will follow a review process that includes notice of the concern and an opportunity for the member to respond. The Director retains final discretion in decisions affecting membership.