The First Queer-Positive Swing Dance School in the U.S. — Founded in 2019
At Queer Swing Seattle, our mission is to build LGBTQAI+ community through the joy of Lindy Hop—the original Black American form of swing dance.
We stand firmly against discrimination of any kind, including based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, race, ability, appearance, national origin, or religion. We recognize that LGBTQAI+ spaces have often fallen short in supporting Trans, Nonbinary, Black, and POC communities, and we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels explicitly welcome, respected, and valued.
Honoring Lindy Hop’s Roots
Lindy Hop is a Black American cultural legacy dance form. We honor this by centering education and programming that respects and uplifts its origins, with a commitment to cultural awareness and action.
What Is Queer Lindy Hop?
Queer Lindy is Lindy Hop by, for, and inspired by LGBTQAI+ people—past and present. It’s both a way of dancing and a perspective, drawing from Black and Queer histories in jazz and swing. Queer Lindy celebrates diverse and intersectional identities by reimagining social dance through inclusive, expressive movement.
Switch & Fluid Lindy Hop
Switch dancing means changing roles mid-dance. Fluid Lindy Hop means anyone can lead or follow, while on either "side" of the partnership and of course regardless of gender. These approaches, deeply influenced by queer dancers, challenge traditional partner dance norms and embrace a more expressive, non-binary way of dancing.
ELEF: Everybody Leads, Everybody Follows
All our classes follow an ELEF model—Everybody Leads, Everybody Follows—at every level. This not only breaks down traditional gender roles but also creates dynamic, musical, and compassionate dancers. Plus, it’s incredibly fun!
Dance Should Be Accessible
Financial difficulty should never be a barrier to dance. If you’re excited to join us but need support, reach out. We partner with organizations to ensure cost doesn’t limit anyone’s access to our classes or community.