Square Dancers Bill Of Rights

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Note that class and dancing settings vary in parts of the country, and around the world...but this is a good general application for those entering this fascinating, worldwide hobby. All New Square Dancers have the right:

1) To a class experience that is both educationally and socially enjoyable.

2) To patient and dignified treatment by the class instructors and sponsors.

3) To gain experience dancing to other callers, and if possible, with dancers from other classes prior to graduation.

4) To receive advice and assistance in acquiring appropriate clothing for square dancing.

5) To instruction and practice using the approved definitions, timing, and styling for each listed call (Basic, Mainstream, Plus, etc.)

6) To information about the heritage and history of our present square dance program.

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Square Dance Graduation Ceremony

This is a script for a Square Dance Graduation Ceremony...The Four Candles of Square Dancing. Customize this to your classes setting. This is usually done after the ''initiation stunts'', which are at the clubs discretion.

You have completed the required basic allemande lefts and do-si-do's of square dancing. The four candles you see before you are the four keys to the spectrum of square dancing. They are FRIENDLINESS, DUTY,DEMOCRACY, and FUN.

The first candle symbolizes FRIENDLINESS among square dancers. You are now part of a huge family of square dancers, worldwide, who welcome you with open arms, and many yellowrocks. Even though we all have many different jobs, interests, etc., square dancing is a common bond between us as friends. Wherever you shall go, or whoever shall visit you, never let it be said that you were not friendly. Remember, a stranger is a friend that you haven't met yet.

The second candle symbolizes DUTY. As a child needs love, and a tree needs water...so does a square dance club need faithful members and willing workers. Prompt payment of dues, attending as many club dances and meetings as possible, serving on committees, and serving as a Club Officer, is all part of your square dance duty. When you are asked to serve in any capacity, please accept, if at all possible. Never let it be said that you shirked your duty, or refused to serve. May you and those who follow you, keep the flame of duty burning brightly...so that everyone may share in the work, as well as the fun. Square dancing is a fun, holsum, family oriented activity...and it is your duty to see that it remains that way.

The third candle symbolizes DEMOCRACY. As our forefathers have done, so we do also in doing the greatest good for the greatest number. It becomes your duty to offer ideas and suggestions at any time to your Club Officers, and during club meetings. It is also your duty to stand behind your club in whatever decision is made...and not to kill your club with bickering, fault finding, etc.

The fourth candle symbolizes FUN. To achieve your purpose of uniting with us, a high level of dancing enjoyment should be your goal. You may still have times where you make a mistake, but you are constantly learning...don't let it spoil the fun.

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The Square Dancers Pledge

With this goal in sight, our common bond as friends can be a source of good fun. In line with this bond that now joins us together as square dancers, I invite you to join us in saying THE SQUARE DANCERS PLEDGE

I, (state your name)....do solemnly swear...that with all my ability...I will do my part...to help keep square dancing...the enjoyable, holsum, friendly...and inspiring activity I know it to be. This I pledge...in the sincere desire...that it may grow...naturally and unexploitedly...in the coming years...and be available to all those... who seek the opportunity...for friendship, fun, and harmony...through square dancing.

Congratulations!!! Now your journey is completed...but your real journey as a square dancer is just beginning. May you and those that follow you keep each of these candles burning brightly. I now turn it over to our caller, who will present you with your diplomas and badges.

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