Members of the Borderline Dance team, a regional women’s country line dance team, were reportedly asked to leave a Seattle dance convention, the Emerald City Hoedown, by organizers of the Rain Country Dance Association. The organizers claimed that the team’s American flag-themed shirts made some attendees feel “triggered and unsafe.” The dance group shared on Facebook that their flag tops were deemed offensive by a small group of convention-goers.
Co-captain Lindsay Stamp explained that their costumes resulted in complaints from a small percentage of people who also brought up Israel’s conflict with Hamas and transgender issues. The team was given an ultimatum to either remove the flag tops and perform in different attire or not perform at all. The team chose not to change their costumes, stating that they do not take political stances and are simply a patriotic group that supports the military, veterans, and first responders.
The Borderline Dance team and another group, West Coast Country Heat, both decided not to perform at the convention in solidarity with each other. The teams chose to stand by their patriotic beliefs and values despite the discrimination they faced. They emphasized that their patriotic spirit is about recognizing true freedom and honoring those who have sacrificed for the country. The group walked out of the venue with class and dignity after experiencing the discrimination.
The Rain Country Dance Association did not respond to requests for comment but addressed the incident indirectly on Facebook. They mentioned there would be a follow-up statement regarding the situation with the dance teams involved. Board president Ziadee Cambier clarified that no team was asked to leave or disqualified, and they would be working on mending relationships with the dance teams. Co-captain Stamp disagreed with the notion of miscommunication and called for more conversations on accepting and including individuals who may differ from one’s comfort zone.
Stamp expressed the importance of opening conversations about accepting and including individuals who may have different perspectives and beliefs. She urged for a more inclusive and accepting environment where people can come together despite their differences. The incident at the dance convention sparked discussions about freedom of expression, patriotism, and the need for understanding and tolerance towards those with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints. Stamp emphasized the need for unity and respect among individuals, regardless of their differences.
