What is wrong In Tango? Disrespect in Communities
Navigating Challenges in Communities
Argentine tango is more than just a dance; it’s a shared passion, a cultural tradition, and a vibrant social ecosystem. For those already immersed in this world, tango is a place where we connect, express ourselves, and grow as dancers and as individuals. The growth and longevity of any tango community depends on fostering an environment of mutual respect, inclusivity, and collaboration. However, like any community, Argentine tango is not immune to challenges. Disrespect can creep in, undermining the harmony we strive to create. From interpersonal behaviors to professional rivalries and scheduling conflicts, disrespect takes many forms and impacts everyone—from dancers to organizers to teachers.
Let’s dive into the ways that disrespect manifests in tango communities and explore how we can address these issues to foster a more unified and respectful environment.
On the dance Floor
Tango etiquette exists for a reason: it ensures safety, harmony, and enjoyment for everyone. Some common violations to avoid:
Unsafe movements - performing flashy moves like high boleos or lifts without skill or attention.
Poor navigation - reckless movements, collisions, moving through the center of the designated dance space disrupt the flow and create unnecessary tension for dancers.
Boundary Crossings - forceful movements or unwanted touch can lead to discomfort.
DO: Respect the ronda and embrace your partner with care. Keep your feet close to your own and your partner’s body. If executing boleos, keep them small and on the floor. Safety always comes first. I encourage dancers to be respectful and mindful of their actions, prioritizing the well-being of their partners and fellow dancers. Tango is a team sport!
Social Dynamics
Social dynamics within tango communities can sometimes foster feelings of exclusion or inequality. Many dancers—typically women—experience exclusion based on age or perceived attractiveness rather than skill or experience. Gendered roles in tango can result in long waits for dances or feelings of rejection.
DO: Invite someone you have never danced with, that person who may be sitting out, older, or less skilled. You can ask even 1 or 2 songs into the tanda. This is a good way to foster inclusiveness. Learn the opposite role is another way. This practice brings amazing insights that will make you a better dancer!
Scheduling Conflicts: a Silent Disruption
Disrespect also arises among tango teachers who schedule classes or workshops on top of each other within the same community. When teachers fail to communicate or collaborate, it sends a message that personal gain takes precedence over collective growth. Students are left feeling torn between loyalties, while the community suffers from fragmentation
DO: Take the opportunity—and responsibility—to work together to build a thriving local tango scene rather than competing against one another.
Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts aren’t limited to teachers; they also extend to milongas and other tango events. When organizers schedule events on the same day within the same locality, intentionally or not, it fractures attendance, divides dancers, and diminishes the sense of community cohesion.
DO: Collaborate rather than compete. Tango thrives on unity, and better coordination could help avoid such disruptions.
Conclusion
In closing, SOME IDEAS for organizers and teachers to shape respectful environments within tango communities:
1. Communicate - ALL Teachers and organizers could coordinate schedules to avoid conflicts and foster collaboration. It could be via a shared calendar, or a text group (What’s App, Viber, Signal, Telegram) or another means of connecting, like a phone call!
2. Educate - Teachers and organizers could prioritize educating dancers about etiquette and cultural differences. Promote traditional practices like the cabeceo (eye contact for dance invitations) to reduce rejection-related discomfort. Avoid scheduling lessons immediately before milongas to prevent teaching on the dance floor. Encourage dancers to invite outside their comfort zone and to reverse roles; in class, at practicas, and when they feel confident, at the milonga.
3. Address inappropriate behavior promptly and transparently, and early through conversation or disinvitation when necessary.
By prioritizing inclusivity, safety, and collaboration, organizers and teachers alike can set the tone for a thriving tango community. Disrespect may be inevitable at times, but it doesn’t have to define our tango communities. With open communication, mutual understanding, and a commitment to respect, we can build stronger connections both on and off the dance floor—a true reflection of what Argentine tango is meant to be.