We focus on three forms of exploitation: sexual abuse, hyper-sexualization, and inappropriate physical exertion that leads to unnecessary injuries.
Backed by research from the American Psychological Association, the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, the Federal Bureau of Investigation on Internet Safety and other accredited agencies, our standards, guidelines and suggestions have been thoughtfully crafted with the best interest of young dancers in mind.
We believe we must be mindful of trends in culture and media and how they influence performing arts. We encourage education, awareness and activism that leads to the healthy self-esteem, safety, and the psychological and sexual development of our youth. Y.P.A.D. is a trusted resource to guide and unite our dance community through the complexities of today’s dance culture.
We honor that trust by ensuring no child is harmed under our leadership.
Y.P.A.D. Offers a Community of Support
Y.P.A.D. members hold diverse roles within our global dance community. Each individual is in a different place along this journey of education and awareness.
Change, even when good, can cause growing pains. What may be easy for one member to implement could be a challenge for another. We need to respect that process as we move through this together.
Please know that the Y.P.A.D. network is here to offer support, solutions, and alternatives, and to help with the individual challenges we face along the way. When we fall short, as we all will do, we can look to each other in our Y.P.A.D. community for support and solutions, not judgment.