5 ways you can create inclusive dance floors (with Glitterbox)

When dance music culture first started to materialise, it was mostly driven by those on the fringes of society. People who felt unwelcome elsewhere created their own parties and pioneered this culture.

Holding events across the globe @defectedrecords and @glitterboxibizas’ whole ethos celebrates the diverse roots of house and disco and strives to create safe spaces for people to unite and express themselves, with performers and DJs who uphold the inclusive ethos.

Here they share five ways you can create inclusive dance floors…

AWARENESS

One of the first steps is to simply be aware: Awareness around the party you’re attending and the general clientele. Awareness around respect, inclusivity and how to conduct yourself on the dance floor.

ACCEPTANCE

Sometimes you might be at a party where the dance floor is packed with people who you wouldn’t normally interact with. Having the ability to accept your differences and be at peace with other people’s lifestyle choices is paramount.

DANCE MUSIC HISTORY 101

Take time to delve into the history of dance music. This whole culture was built on the foundations laid down by people who were generally not accepted by mainstream society: queers, ethnic minorities, those from lower economic classes. Taking this into account should help with awareness.

CHECK YOURSELF

If you ever start to feel intimidated, confronted or perhaps even triggered by the mere presence of someone who is different to you, take a breather and check yourself for a while. The dance floor is supposed to be a liberated space, and if that’s challenging for you, there’s no shame in taking time out to reflect on why that is.

COMPASSION & CONNECTION

Having love and compassion for your fellow raver is a big step towards overall inclusivity. If you find someone intriguing, why not approach them and interact? The more you connect with people you’re unfamiliar with, the more you’ll realise that we’re all essentially the same. And that is a vital aspect of dance floor unity.