Gender role issues within community…
- I heard of a
dance somewhere where anyone who wanted to dance the lead/ “man’s”
role would put on a necktie.
There was a basket of neckties available and it got rid of any
confusion because anyone without a necktie was assumed to be a
follower and it all worked out somehow.
- (someone else starred “necktie”)
- Callers could
take note if there is a gender imbalance in the hall, and encourage
folks to try the “other” role, it’s fun!
- I
enjoy/appreciate the gender-fluidity in contra dancing – switching
roles, even in mid-dance. It also makes me a better dancer and
better leader to do both roles. I’d like to preserve this “do
what you want” freedom and not have to pick one – even with
neckties or wristbands or ribbons.
- Callers can use
words such as “leaders” and “followers” rather than “ladies” and “gents.”
When you pass someone dancing a reverse-gender -> encourage
them.
- I really
appreciate when callers refer to roles as “gender-roles” rather
than just “gender” or “sex”. “lead” and “follow” is
good too.
- It isn’t fair
necessarily, but I think one thing we can do as gender switches
(especially mid-dance) is be extremely confident and clear in your
dancing – people I think get less annoyed if they are less
confused.