History Acknowledgement

At dances, classes, and events we will be participating in swing dancing, an African American art form, originating in the early 1900s and inextricably linked to the history of the transatlantic slave trade. The Africans who were sold or taken into slavery in the US brought their culture with them. Black people have nurtured their culture in the harshest of conditions, and created, and continue to create, many transcendent art forms, including swing dance. We owe the founders of this dance, named and unnamed, our thanks, our respect, and a commitment to carry their values forward. In particular, I’d like to name Norma Miller, Dawn Hampton, Al Minns, and Frankie Manning. We stand on the shoulders of giants who refused to be kept down.

Land Acknowledgement

We gather on ancestral homelands of the Coast Salish Peoples who have lived in the Salish Sea basin throughout the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades watershed from time immemorial. Bellingham is located on the ancestral homelands of the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe.

Statement of Diversity

B’ham Hop values diversity of age, race, economic status, gender expression, size, physical ability, developmental ability, musical interests, learning styles, nationality, religion, thought, citizenship status, and sexual orientation. We promote respect and do not tolerate racism, sexism, homophobia, or other discriminatory behavior or expression.’

Valuing Live Entertainment

At B’ham Hop value the interaction that arises between dancers, musicians, and performers. We intend to make live music and performance a regular part of our managed programming. Keep an eye out for our live band bookings (typically monthly) and featured dance performers. It is our hope that our community will embrace and support these artists.