is this even a debate (Yes it is)

We have all the same DNA. All people should be entitled to dance no matter who they choose to be their partner.

definetly...its a modern world now, lets make some new traditions.

I don't feel comfortable dancing w other women I'm not gay but most certainly gay couples mayst be allowing wed!!

At the least, logically and ethically considering transfolk, there is no ethical way to determine how any BODY identifies themselves in regard to gender.

Humanity begins in mind, critical thinking, generosity and compassion begin at home.

Words are ethics, action is character.

Do 'most competitions ban same sex couples'? They compete at Blackpool amateur and professional comps and in medalist comps and so not sure what the basis of this statement is.

Let people dance! Competition however should be based on standards where every couple dancing has the chance to show their skills without distraction. Same-sex divisions allows this.

Who will determine the sex of a competitor?

Dancing is a passion, no one should be denied that passion.

They allow all girls sections so why not allow all boys sections?

I support having a separate event just for bigots.

I feel that the world needs a change, its disappointing that this is even a question. People should be comforable not only with themselves but with those around them. Especially as dancers, how can we limit ourselves to dancing with just one gender. If someone is a good dancer im not gonna turn them down. Every opportunity i have to improve im gonna take it. Guy, girl, show me what you got!

As for having a separate event for same sex dancers. Are we judging the dress and pants or are we judging leaders and followers? Are we judging dance styling or are we judging gender styling?

I am saddened to see such hateful comments. Even if you have moral or religious objections to gay relationships, dancing is a hobby and a passion and you shouldn't want to take that away from someone else. Dancing can mean something romantic between couples or a way to meet people socially for possible dating, but for serious dancers, dancing is art through movement, not something sexual. The question asked about competitions for serious dancers, not romantic dancing.

I am gay and have danced with both men and women and learn both roles, though I primarily lead. But I don't think same-sex couples should dance in the same divisions at the same time as if it doesn't matter what gender the partners are. Dance figures were developed with ladies in mind; the figures look good for ladies to dance because they tend to have slimmer frames, longer legs, and wear certain attire. When two men or two women dance together, it's an entirely different dynamic that should reflect the norms of gay culture or at least should not reflect the rigid norms of straight culture (like dominant/submissive, frame/picture, strong/weak, etc.). There must be a separate division that allows for many different forms of expression, fluidity of roles, different dance figures that look more natural for men and women, etc.

However, a separate competition entirely feels discriminatory and would mean that only gay people would attend gay dance competitions, and then most people would miss out on the chance to have a dialogue and be open-minded so the dance world can evolve.

I am all for it. I dance contra and English country where dancing with another woman is acceptable. If I had a woman ask me to compete and she knew how to lead I'd definitely do it.

I just dont feel comfortable doing the same sex! I dont have any problems by watching a couple with same sex.but i prefer to do competition with a female.

Dancing is an art. So people should not be discriminated on gender. Same sex competitions should be allowed but in a separate division.

If it introduces more people to the art and love of dancing I support it.

I see nothing wrong with same sex or any gender dancing or competing. Dancing is dancing at the end of the day.

Given the blindness of most people to life-style related illness I can see that as the age group goes up there are less body able males and then I see that older women have no choice but to dance with other females. However at younger age than 60 I don't see the need and I don't agree with forcing into society the results of mother nature mistakes. Normally dancing in couples have been between a man and woman and I don't see the need to change that. As a principle I think that we should as much as possible live in harmony with Mother Nature or otherwise confront the result of our blindness with problems with our health physical, mental and spiritual.

this is really a stupid stupid stupid topic
leave fags where they belong
concentrate in your original page

While l occasionally dance w/another lady, it is not a "sex thing," it because there are very few men in attendance, & it is just a social dance. 1 night there were OVER twice as many women as men in attendance,

I don't see that same sex couples should be excluded from competition. But there should be equal opportunity for the differing genders, that is, I am not sure that two males or two females or a male/female couple present the same because each of their way of moving is inherently different, and you need to compare like with like.

Everyone should be given the right to dance with whomever they want. Yes, let men dance with men, women dance with women if they please. A separate same-sex division is my suggestion! Dance on :)

Natural on this topic, dance competition achievement met is the goal.

I agree with the comment below that said "I think it might be difficult to judge same sex couples with male-female couples." Similar to other "sporting" events and activities, having separate categories for males and females makes sense. Transgender is another matter, in which case the birth sex (X or Y) should be the determining factor. There are definite differences between the two physical genders.

Why all the drama. Dance so it brings you joy. And let the others do the same.

Dancing same sex couples should be allowed on the competition as a separate division. I have a friend and we dance Argentine Tango together as needed because we don't have a partner

What's all the fuss. Dance is dance! It's a competition and it should be judged on the dancers ability.

Dancing should be between, a man and woman.

Although I initially checked the allow any gender mix box, I think it might be difficult to judge same sex couples with male-female couples. Having separate categories seemed less complicated.

Well... I can say that I am middle aged and now have an adult TG child so my views are being challenged. I see women dancing with each other and at times I now attend lessons where there are more men in which case the male instructor does the female steps. Perhaps we need to be considering the dance form as Lead v Follower steps and then it may not be an issue of gender. And yes I prefer Male Leads... but even my personal instructor somes says 'you be the woman' to demo a move. Seems ok to just be people first.

Same sex competitive dancing is often a necessity, and not a preference. If striving for medals, you need a partner of a similar ability, which in many cases may be the “same sex”, dance instructor. Social dancing is a different matter, often ladies dance as couples, whilst men dancing together, turns me off somewhat. An interesting alternative is couples switching roles with the lady leading the man. I went to a dance once where the lady informed me that “she only danced men’s steps!”.

Neaver

Please, please...!

if you are going to have sames sex competition it should be under the heading. "Doubles" not "Couples" and allow the doubles to compete only with other same sex doubles. for example 2 males compete with other two male doubles.

I agree that should be male and female only

It should be male and female dance together.

I believe that female teachers should be able to lead their female students no different than male teachers. Other than that, dances should be between a lady and a gentleman. And teachers should not be forced to become members of dance associations to do that if they just teach.
This is member's mom's opinion, as this member has an older sister.

Or let them buy their own venue with their own restroom situation to their satisfaction.

We are in a new millenium. .time to bring dance competitions into this age as well.

There are competitions for same sex already. It's like comparing apples and turnips to put same sex in the same category as regular competition. Plus It's opening the door to too many variables. I'm not really old! That's like saying if you don't think like me your opinion does not mater. Sounds like a liberal. It's bad enough that competition is already a poor excuse to what partnered dance should be as it is. I'm not against dancing with a man myself but in doing so the flavour of it all would be different. I would want a different category for that.

Do not believe in same sex dating.

same sex needs to be separate

None of the above. I vote: "Competitions COULD offer separate same-sex divisions" IF THEY CHOOSE." --Just like now, not every comp offers every type of dance and not every category. I guess I think of dance as an art form, and prefer the aesthetic of male and female. The male and female of any dance couple could each be straight or homosexual, and any relationship to each other (as we already have). I realize some same-sex couples may want the opportunity to compete as a couple. (for now anyway...minds change) I do think if that is done, those couples should be judged separately from the traditional male-female couple. Then we'd have to decide such things as: do two women both wear gowns, or one wear pants? similar for two men - does one wear the tux and the other some other garb? That is, do we try to retain the masculine-feminine appearance & interaction of the dance? Seems easiest for events to be separate, but each competition could, and should be able to, decide on their own; e.g. possibly very large comps can afford the time slots/scheduling to create the new categories--could get very big if one considers that all levels and all ages could conceivably have to be 'repeated'. Thus, it seems separate events may be simpler. Although, for am-am, what if the 'regular' male-female competition allows for a same-sex couple where one dresses as the man and one dresses as the woman, thus, 'as if' a male-female couple? Most pro-am events have "amateur couples" as separately judged in each category with pro-am couples. Maybe in that amateur-couple scenario, a couple is any two people who want to dance together (for the given dance level and age division). Then the male-female pro-am couple would be retained and any two people could dance as amateur couple. But what about pro divisions?! Humans do make things complicated! :-) Is good such discussions are underway.

Is this for am-am couples , pro-am, pro-pro?

I know from competing that I've seen and know female teachers who have no male teachers so they lead their female students and that I feel is very acceptable because all of their students deserve a right to compete .

I think everyone should be on the same playing field if that is what they want. I think the difficulty in doing so would be the inherent differences between male and female body types/ flexibility / strength and how to teach judges to judge on the same scale .

It would be different for me in a same-sex competitive dancing. I sincerely have nothing against them just do not share the same idea of romance. It would be best separate on different days.

It should be male and female dances only.

I think same sex should have their own venues regardless of competitions.

One of my ideals for dance is that it is beautiful and elegant to watch.
It can never be that with two men dancing together... in suits!    And, they will NEVER have the same elegance.

Another not offered option would be same day different time. Assuming this will happen despite resistance and only one performance area, at least the event could occur say at the beginning or end such that those who objected strongly (if any) could still view what they wanted without having to physically leave as the event started which might detract a little as well.
The only question I would have is fairness in competition being allowed? In other words would a MM couple have a gymnastic advantage due to upper body strength, or would a FF couple have a gymnastic agility advantage due to say lesser body weight? We might see preteens and young teens dominate like in figure skating or other gymnastics.
Wrestling has strict weight range designations due to perceived advantages.
People with a passion for dance will always want rules set up such that they could compete and win what ever their partnership may be.
I could see valid reasons for voting for any of the options above it just depend which "should statements" are dominant in our minds at this time in our life. And I know mine change every decade or so.

I im not old fashion im prety open mind and i support gay community but I find that because of the representation and style of the dance whit the deferents tecniques and styles, the purpuse of the sport dance is to have a real male style whit a real women style... its not because gay community is supported now that we have to let then in and change evrything. Its okay for to mannor to women dancing togueter, but the meaning of the dance sport is to have a real masculine figure whit a real femenine figure. Because its a femenine/ mascilune style togueter.... other wise, one od the womens will have to prentend to be a man and mascarade as a men and vise versa whit thans mans beeing women... unless you are trying to chage into the opposite sex you ate this is a defferent story...and thats my opinion.

anyone who doesn't agree is really old.

Live & let live, when I walk in water , I'll judge

Gender should not be stated for competitions & separate sections/competitions should also be available

I have nothing against gay people but I just can't get my head around this. I feel this issue lowers the spirit of dance.

Dancing is not a sport that involves orientation sexually or a preference. We have two genders in our species and having a same sex couple is in a way excluding a woman from the opportunity to be able to dance, and visa versa for two women without a male leading. the MAIN reason for this.... however... is to do with judging. The male dresses in a certain way, the female in a certain way and it is easy to judge in this manner. Having two females or two males... (as a male wouldn't wear a dress to dance with) would make it harder to see certain elements so I think. I do not think that there should be any banning of any same sex dance events/partners however one must recognise gender differences in movement/strength/poise will not be the same hence why we also do not have mixed events for certain sports due to unfair advantage.... Just my take as a beginner looking with a fresh pair of unbiased eyes into the sport of dance.

"He created them male and female, and blessed them".... Genesis 5:2

Competitions should allow any gender mix

as for swing, it's already happening and fun to watch

i feel same sex is fine, same events different category.

The time will come when this is a non-issue and we will realize we are just people who love to dance.

dancing is between a man and a women. a key fits into a hole. this is what generates the spark and magic between a man and a woman. especially in ballroom and latin dancing.

This survey is missing an obvious option. Why not have competitions with 3 divisions? One division for any gender mix, one for same-sex, and a division for male-female only? Let people decide what kind of competition to enter for themselves. There's plenty of room for everyone!

Dance because you love it, not to please others view of what's right or wrong!

I am bisexual, but feel that as a sport, men and women have different strengths (like putting ladies A and B in diff categories). I think that same sex couples should be allowed on the same floor, but judged in a separate bracket.

Same sex dance couples are fine but should be in a separate division. It would not be fair to judge them in the same contest as opposite gender partnerships because they may have some advantageous as well as disadvantages. Their need their own catagory.

If you think it through ... a couple is a couple

I do see the point of having the male & female rule in competitions as it's a competitive sport, you wouldn't be allowed same sex couples in the mixed doubles of tennis! Although I do agree that anyone has the right to dance with whoever they want.

I strongly feel that they should have them at the same event in a different category

What's next? Dancing with animals? Complete wacko liberalism ! What kind of country am I living in??

I started following to improve my dancing as a leader, and love it. I think competitions should allow any gender mix.

I do not support same sex dance competitions

Competition should not allow same sex dancers

I support 'both' and 'separate' comps. Why should it be one way or the other only?

Ive done many same sex presentations and public (almost exclusively female) loved them

I am gay

As long as they are on different days. I would like to know who is who I am dancing with.

I am not against any gender preferences. I am equal and open minded to any..

Anyone has the right to dance with whomever they wish. To force that upon the mainstream in wrong. Have separate events/venue for same sex competitions.

It's not natural. I am old fashion.

Everyone should dance-there are currently many dance competition divisions and categories...they should fit into one of those...peace & love people

Whatever floats your boat!

Competitions define the rules, it is appropriate to create other events that are created for this if it is an issue

I have danced in all girl partnerships since juvenile stages because of the shortage of available tall boys. If I did not have that opportunity I would not have had exposure to national competitions.

It's a different audience.

Two people dancing together in a competition as a couple, should be judged as a couple. If their dancing is gorgeous, I don't care what's underneath the costume or which bathroom a person chooses to use. A non-issue in my book––in competition, it's the quality of the dancing that counts.

Talent and creativity in dance, that is what matters. Besides, not everybody manages to find a partner from the other gender, or 'just' a compatible partner. Dance comes first!

What is there to be afraid of...it's the arts...it's expression...as far as I am concerned be yourself, connect, and do your thing....

While not prevalent, same sex dance partners competing has been around for many years/decades. In my opinion this has nothing to do with demonstrating and/or improving transferable lead-follow skills and everything to do with being politically correct in CY2016. Either make this a different day/venue rodeo event or make it a separate division. In my opinion, "same-sex" dance partners is out of the main-stream, "established norm" for all flavors of amateur and professional dance. While not to deny the pleasure of dance to anyone, preferably, take it elsewhere so as not to deny the pleasure of dance to the status quo during long-established main-stream dance competitions.

There are a shortage of male dancers gender mix will be good.

Same sex have to choose other kind of dancing,not ballroom -because the main idea of it is woman and a man dancing

LOOK DANCING IS FOR EVERY ONE<PERIOD>

It only enhances my experience to see and meet people of all lifestyles.

Any gender mix should be allowed, its about chemistry not looks

it will be interesting, it has nothing to do with sexuality of relief. There are so many more women than men in whole dance communities. It will be a lot easier to find a partner if there are something we can compete with women duo, like ballet,, different figures and steps, it won't be pas de deux for man and women..

this is 2016!!!

Many of the dance comps I've been to have already had this.. As long as there is a separate division for this I think it's great and should be allowed everywhere. Has nothing to do with sexual preference.

I would like to know more about the skills and qualities on which dancers are judged. I am torn by open competition vs same sex competition.

The skills of a Leader or Follower can be mastered be any sex classification. What discriminates
our current social norm from including other people who love to dance? Wouldn't more people
who love to dance be a blast to experience?

Not everyone is fortunate to have a male partner, especially if you are part of a local dance school where do not have many male dancers. I don't see an issue with a women dancing man for partnering purposes. There has been lady/lady partnerships competing for quite a few years now and some dance better than some of the couples in lady/man category. However the lady/lady partnerships have there own category now at my competitions giving them more chance of claiming a prize and/or being placed on the podium as opposed to a few years they had to compete against lady/man which for the judges who were set in there ways who did not welcome lady/lady partnerships regardless of whether they were better dancers placed them quite low when competing against lady/man partnerships. So I say here is to the future of (as you describe) same sex partnerships.

Only a man an woman should dance or anything for that matter

should be allowed but should be separate event to ensure fairness

free speech pluss free choice of dancing

It seems many people assume that same sex dancing or non-conventional dance partnership (i.e. a coupke of a female lead and a male follower) is only for gay or LGBTQ. I think it actually opens more possibilities and opportunities for everyone, regardless one's gender identity. That being said, dancesport is a sport. I think it might be necessary to set a seperate divison or an event, just like other sport events.

We host same sexed amateur/ameteur and pro/am at our annual USA Dance Chicago DanceSport Challenge dance competition in late October. Many female teachers have only female students. Male/Female and Same Sexed partners compete on the floor at the same time. This shortens the scheduled events and allows all dancers to compete in as many events they qualify for.

As long as there's a tux & a dress, does it matter who wears what & whether they're lead or follow? But I'd also allow competitions to set their own restrictions.

I don't have any issues with same sex couples, but for competition dancing the gender coupling needs to be the same to make it fair for all the competitors.

Why not?!

It should be all about dance ability not gender. Yes any mix.

In Pro-Am comps, it's common for a female teacher to dance with a female student. I don't remember seeing male-male, but I don't see why that should be different. One would have to consider the aesthetics of both partners wearing ball gowns or tuxedos along side traditional couples. Maybe in a mixed completion, require one ball gown and one tuxedo per couple? Except most men look terrible in ball gowns.

I have no problem with the issue - this is 2016! That said, I personally only dance with men - just my choice.

What people do is there own business. Keep it separate events and make everybody happy. Men and women can be men and woman. Gays can have their thing. It would be the best for the most people.

Ballroom dancing is an art form defined as a male lead and a female follow..... To have it any other way would be to defile ballroom dancing......I would never attend such an event!

i think everyone should have a chance to dance - there tend to be more women available so why not partner with whomever is available!

I can't even see why it is an issue. The subject is a waist of time.

I think it is hard -no impossible to compare m/f competitors with same sex

i never think about this question. I dont know why I should say no???

have a cathogry for same sex

I feel the ban is wrong and prejudicial! Yes any mix.

Man should be with woman. In relationship, marriage or dancing

I think in competition same sex couples should compete with same sex couples due to dynamics, body mechanics and how that reflects in dancing and how it appears to the judges

No way please, boring to watch ....not even in the dream....a competition should be with a male in a suit attire and a woman well dressed .

Dancing is dancing !

If you want to be the best.... you must beat the best. And that could include the same sex couple that has been dancing for the last 20 years. To exclude them from the competition because of their genders is simply an easy way out. As previously mentioned, dancing is a way of expressing oneself and is a great way to make ourselves happy. In no way should anyone ever feel negative or ashamed when they are dancing. You should never make someone else feel less because of who they would like to dance with. It's 2016! We all deserve happiness. :) If you would prefer to dance with someone of the opposite sex then you should! You have the right to choose. Be happy! Just don't tell someone else that they do not have the same right to choose, just as you do. If you are not comfortable dancing with a person of the same sex, I would recommend that you don't. Be Happy :)

No, it's unnatural. Male and female bodies are different and have diffrent roles throughout the dance. It's not about being politically correct, it's about what is right! Marriage is between a man and woman and so is a Ballroom dancing couple. Jesus Christ made Adam & Eve, man & women, and I am with Jesus Christ! Dancing is beautiful and should stay that way. A couple is defined as " a male and female" by the 2016 NDCA rulebook, it would stay that way.

Same sex couple dancing would require a somewhat different technique and provide a different aesthetics.

We are all equal in every way. Same sex should be able to enter competion

I am not gay , but I think a couple is a couple weather they are hetrosexual bisexual or homosexual. Really it's 2016 who cares!!

I like the idea of same-sex couples competing in separate divisions in competitions. This keeps us all together in one event but recognises that a same-sex couple is different, but just as valid, as a man-lady couple.

I have a concern regards complimentary stature and strength being easier to achieve for a same sex couple thus conferring an advantage. The competitions I do currently allow same sex couples and I am happy with that. At open/national/international level would I get the same enjoyment out of watching a same sex couple compete? Yes. Do I think it would be fair? No.

just doesn't seem right!

I do not support, Two men and Two woman competing as a couple due to the fact that it provides a different aesthetic than male female dancing. I am not against same sex competitions but, I do not think that it can be judged appropriately or fairly. I also want to add that I am secure in my sexuality as a straight male and have danced the female part to teach other males. However, I would not like to dance with another male in a competition when a mixed competition is offering and allowing men to identify as a female and in the draw for a partner I end up with another man. There are moves that I am comfortable performing with a female that I would not be comfortable doing with another male and having said that it would restrict me as a dancer and not allow me to showcase my lead as well as my abilities. These type of competitions should be held at a different time or even a different venue. Dancing is for everyone and it should make each one of us happy to express ourselves and not limit us because we are uncomfortable. I mean this in no offense as I am a professional or at least have a professional attitude and am always willing to teach either gender but, in competition it is simply anot aesthetic issue that I am addressing. Thank you.

Curious to hear what same-sex partners prefer regarding competition.

Been going on for centuries anyway. Why change it now?

I really do not see this as an issue, I am a dance professional and I lead my ladies at independent competitions. I have been approached by dancers telling me that I was one of the best leaders out on the floor. National events will not allow me to lead these ladies because they define the dance partnership as male and female. The only issue is that if they do not have events where the ladies can demonstrate their skill without the need for a male partner. Some ladies prefer female instruction and do not mind a lady who can lead to compete with them. Of course, I do not mind being just a follower but until my pro partner comes along...then I have both shoes to fill.

The only problem with mixed and same sex couples competing together is that of the physical strength of the partners. A male-male paring is likely to be much stronger than a M-F or F-F couple. In other sports there are same and mixed sex divisions, Tennis being one prime example and good because they cater for all mixes. Football, rugby, and most team sports separate the sexes because of the difference in physical strength. Others have division by sex such as the majority of Olympic and Paralympic sports.

I also believe competitions should allow a female lead with a male follow. Maybe just make the lead wear black and the follow wear a color for easy designation.

Let same sex mingle together. It's offensive and uncomfortable. Why do they want to mingle with opposite sex couples?

The competitions should be separated as physical condition, aomong others, plays a great role in dancing, thus, a male couple would most probably have more power than a female or mixed couple.

Should be separate days.

same sex couples should not compete against Male/female couples

1) it is unfair in terms of Speed/Power/Performance
2) all males wear flat shoes so unfair in that in a M/F couple the female wears heels
3) visual how can you compare a guy in tails against a female wearing a beautiful dress

Seems it was good enough in the 1950s and should be considered "normal" today in 2016: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAFEEaUfSEEForcing women to NOT dance just because there aren't enough brave enough males to dance is unconscionable.

Not interested in same sex dancing, period.

Dancing is a physical sport. There are variations in the male and female bodies, and even synaptic responses in their brains. As such it wouldn't seem fair at a practical logical level to have all couple types in the same heat. That would be the same as saying all Olympic sports should be unisex, even though we know that doing that would put different genders at a severe disadvantage depending on the sport.

I have seen men dancing together in professional competitions. I have seen eight years old female children dancing together too. What's the difference? All the single-gender couples that I have seen, were superb dancers. I am not a same-sex-dancer, but greatly appreciated the dance skills that I witnessed. The gender didn't matter. Many people are too set in their ways, or simply jealous. Art for Art's sake. Dance for dance sake - without prejudice.

It would be hard to regulate this in competition , in a social setting I have no issue with. I guess I am still a traditionalist.

They should possibly be available (if the demand is there), but at a separate event, because with two males or two females it would be a different dance. A big part of ballroom and Latin dances is the interplay and contrast between male and female bodies, movements and other characteristics.

There could be sisters or just friends as two females or brothers doing duets. some are twins, etc. same sex doesn't necessarily mean that they're homosexual.... but if so, it should make no difference if they have dance skills.

Lord created a man and a woman, there is a great purpose in it...

Why not?

Please, let us cease all of this political correctness where dance is concerned. One man, one woman, is a couple, period. aloha,Noel

it just doesn't work as well. M-F is traditional. Get the boys and men onto the dance floor! There's such a shortage in the industry and same sex dance comps will not solve the problem. Get men dancing; it's good for health. See artcles on arthritis on web.

I definitely believe same-sex couples should be allowed to compete at regular competitions, but because the dynamic is completely different, there should be another division for them.

I am a traditionalist

Male bodies vary, short to tall, slim to heavily muscled, agile to anchored...female bodies vary similarly in height, body composition, agility. You can never match the competitors in an event that closely even when restrictig to m-f. I see get over it, strengthen the sport at local level- where it is almist dead- before worrying what's needed for the Olympics! worrying

Although a gay man myself I do not support same sex comps in relation to ballroom dancing. For me, (and what attracted me to it), ballroom dancing is as much about the connection and chemistry between the man and the lady; tradition and heritage; elegance...and of course by no means least the 'finery'..... besides I thought it was just as much about the man's role being to 'present' the lady and make her look good.. and so that just doesn't seem the same when its man/man or lady/lady. Of course that's not to say a man and man or lady and lady shouldn't dance (or compete) together as a couple, I'm all for that after all dance is about expression, freedom and enjoyment, and all dance is fantastic..... but same sex isn't  'real' ballroom dancing in the conventional sense (irrespective of whether it uses the traditional ballroom dances), how can it be, however enjoyable it is to do or to watch....it is simply another form of contemporary dancing that uses ballroom style dances, which is great too but is not the real thing.

Since the subject of discussion is partner dance, if all gender mixtures allowed there should be three categories of MM, MF, and FF for the competitions. A team of MM would perform differently than a team of MF, or FF since their capabilities are different. Men can exert more lifting power and women can use more flexibility in their dances; therefore need to be separated for fair competition.

There is a theory around dancing and it no include the same sex dance. It's part of those who does'nt have Identity.

I think all should be included, but for same sex couples there should be a standard set in place. If competing a same sex couple must follow all the rules the same, but when signing up one stays lead and one stays following throughout the competition. No changing up who is the leader and who is following. Other than that just follow the rules.

Silly. The sexual chromosome you were born with, tells the truth. Heterosexual, male and female only. As they say, "Duh!"

there are so few men interested in dancing, so would make it easier if you don't need a man to compete

It is about the dance; not the gender.

social - don't care / competitions - I am traditional

I couldn't care less

FACTS. DanceSport is SPORT recognised by the IOC. In no sport do men & women compete against each other (unless matched one of each). NONE! Also impossible to judge re: image and more. We have to get our house in order if dancesport is to be further considered for inclusion by the IOC. Such argument is only one aspect of the inequality caused by male followers competing against female followers where because of the parameters involved, such inequality is an anathema to fairness. Equality in sport is essential whether DanceSport or any other sport, there is no difference in respect of equality. DanceSport has died in this country, look to the rest of the world to see how it is progressing.

people should be judged on their ability alone

i want to chose "WHO CARES"….there should be a circle to click above entitled "WHO CARES?" life is too short ..we'll all be dead in less than 100 years

If you don't support same sex dancing then don't do it and leave others alone to choose what they want to do.

I think it's really a shame that in 2016 this topic is still not supported by so many. Being an instructor myself for over 22 years I've seen progress towards equality but there's still a glass ceiling that needs to be broken. Dancing should be open to all! For me I do think there should be a separate divisions so it's more fair to the competitors.

It feels tiresome to think that we even need such discussion. People have personal preferences, and that's fine, but those shouldn't dictate what others are not reasonably allowed to do. Does it affect a mixed-gender couple to have same-gender couples in the same competition -- not in the least. On the other hand, same-gender couples may find that judges have preferences that affect the scoring. They might want to have their own competitions, and indeed they do, and I believe they allow couples of any gender-mix.

How would different anatomy affect judging for standard?  Two busty women might need slightly different rules for judging mightn't they?

I believe everyone should have the right to follow they're passions and what makes them happy. I personally prefer the natural male to female dances myself, and probably wouldn't attend anything different because it is not my interest.

Who should be able to dance with whomever you want

Nope

I am religious

I don't compete with other male dancers, (I do compete with myself.), so I am just forming an opinion on this.

Do same sex couples have an advantage/disadvantage skill wise? (I doubt it, so that shouldn't be a problem.)

In my area, the gay people usually social dance in a better frame, and with more body contact, than most non-gays do. Assuming that the best competitors still dance with body contact, we all need to copy that example.

I guess the problem might that fewer male dancers would want to compete, if they saw a big burly man, dancing the ladies part, while dressed, in a sexy Latin costume.

The rational thing to do, would be to allow women to dance with women, because there simply are not enough men to go around.

Of course, we all know that the Government will soon pass a law that takes this out of our hands. Our grandchildren will wonder what all the fuss was about.

I support LGBT's rights, but dance is another thing. I'd like to see a clear role and a clear outfit of the dancers.

It isn't natural that two people of the same would dance together, especially men.

We are living in 2016 and it is evident that same-gender partnering is not a crime and no different from those who choose an opposite gender  to dance with. Women have shown to be a better and sensitive lead than men because they know the follow steps in order to lead well. I empathize with the men, though, because they face more social pressures for putting on heels to learn the follow steps ...

I do not care what sexual orientation a person is. But I like to see male and females dancing together. It's feminine and masculine its about balance. It just a preference on what I think looks better. To me seeing a man and a man or a woman and a woman it does not even out. Like I said the feminine and the masculine. And of course not to offend any one my opinion is strictly based on my preference of what I like on the dance floor. It has nothing to do with whether I agree with a persons choice of being LGBT. I have many LGBT friends who I tell I like to see the opposite dancing. Also just to note... I do not mind these question every so often but I hope this site does not become over run with issues especially one that are a sensitive subject. I am just here to find a dance partner and have fun.

What next, like Caligula marry your horse! Ballroom Dancing in America already has an onerous reputation and is in decline. Same sex would put the nail in the coffin. Too many deviates are already involved and it would drive many of us "squares" away for good!

Anything besides any gender mix is unconstitutional any morally unjust.

Dancing, including competitions, should be open to anyone, and who you want to sleep with shouldn't affect who you want to dance with. Or who else is dancing in the room at the same time! If you don't want to do it, don't, but don't tell other people what to do. I'm straight (female), but do a lot of same sex social dancing and the odd S/S competition (they already exist), both as leader and follower, and I find that the same sex/mixed scene is a lot friendlier and nicer than the straight scene. I think equal, fully mixed competitions are good for everyone as it changes the dynamic a bit and makes everyone work harder. But, it does also look better if there is a distinct leader and a distinct follower regardless of gender - I think historically all women partnerships haven't done as well as mixed couples because too often "lady leaders" lead like, err, girls with a follower's posture but just leader's arms, rather than having a more upright posture. Similarly, while the all male couples often do well at belting around the floor, the follower doesn't always have as nice a poise or as soft lines as might be desirable. And some variation in outfits, including some swingy bits for the follower, looks better than two of the same, be it dresses or trousers.

i do not support them- but im also not so much against it. My last competition. My instructor was a girl and every time i danced with my guy partner i wish to dance with her instead lol. But i know some people will not see it right. my vote is 50/50.

It's a great idea. After all we have all ladies comps for years in ballroom & old time sequence & nobody ever suggested that there was anything wrong with this section. Now with all male couples it's an issue. I do think that the rule makers need to create a same sex section on the grounds of fairness, having witnessed all male couples dance in Blackpool the power they create is fabulous but unfair to ladies having to dance in heels. There is room for all in dancing - within their own category in order to be fair to all. There could be one 'open to all' comp to fuse all dancers together within the sport.

I have a beautiful gay daughter, who I am very proud of, and who is engaged to a beautiful lady. I support same sex competitive dancing and same sex non-competitive dancing. My other daughter is straight and happily married. Come on world, accept these beautiful people!

Any gender combination is OK with me. Let's leave sexual bigotry to Donald Trump rallies.

No same sex competitions, please!

Is Sam sex the same as Same sex ? ;)

For many years, female dance teachers have occasionally competed doing the man's part. Should this, therefore, be banned? They are dressed as men, approximately. It is barely noticeable that these are actually women when they are dressed appropriately.

I don't support same sex events. Quite happy for them to be different events as they would attract a different audience. I do have a bit of an old timers view on such matters and feel quite comfortable with it.

Dancing should be a passion enjoyed by everyone. Excluding others is plain wrong. To separate groups of people would be saying they are different. We are humans we are all the same. The dancing is what should bring us all together !

So so hard to find male dance partners and I have been in several same sex dance partnerships as a result of this. Couples should be judged separately and be given the same chance to succeed (often on the University circuit, same sex couples are overlooked in favour of the more traditional partnership. As a result, they have created a separated division and the situation has improved)

Ballroom dancing isn't about sexual orientation; it's about two different physical genders dancing together.  Competitions have to be judged fairly and evenly, and same sex couples are different, so can't be fair or even.  If same sex couples insist on dancing together (and I don't see why they should, as it isn't about who you are attracted to) then they should definitely have their own competition.

Most of the instructors at my local dance school are women because fewer men are interested in dancing. The performances are half women-with-women where one is an instructor. It is very hard to find a man to perform or compete with.

As a Pro/Am Competitor and Judge, I support same sex couples, but they should have their own event. It would be more fair to both the judges and the competitors.  This allows for tradition and for a dynamic community of dancers.

Too many level's and events already. Lets make ballroom more newcomer/Intermediate friendly, cheaper, and more common to the everyday person. I don't see how same gender couples advance this sport or its tradition.

It is a different category. I would not feel comfortable in same dance night.

The organizers of the competitions should have the right to determine eligibility. Be mindful of the purpose and rules of "engagement" when or how a competition is to take place. Dancers  should be free to dance with whom they choose so long as it doesn't run afoul for the purpose of the competition. There's another factor to be considered  and that is the other participants and the attendees. They are an indispensible part of the event too. I have seen same gender dancing in the past and didn't think one way or the other since it was instructional.

In some West Coast Swing events, they have a fun Jack/Jack and Jill/Jill competition. Former is more athletic and crazy fun; latter, sexy. But this is completely out of the regular competition and not the focus. This is for entertainment only.

Competitions should have separate divisions, but open fun events why not. This also allows more to enjoy if the right partner is unavailable.

Absolutely

in competition its more professional n pleasing to the eye if there is a man n woman defined but if one female wishes to dress as a man then y not hav same sex there r always more woman interested in dancing than there r men, but to c 2 woman dressed as women or 2 men together as man thats not enjoyable to to viewers

Dancing is a skill not limited by gender, nor should a competition unless it is specified as a basic requirement of the rules of the competition (rules are rules). You want a same sex comp? make a same sex comp, if you want it to be an open comp then make an open comp.

Its all up to the holders of the competition. This is 'their' competition not yours. You want to be in it then play by 'their' rules.

If you want a new competition then make a new class of comp that offers same sex-divisions and its non-existant then make a new one

It should always be between a man and a woman. To change the rule now, would break dozens of rules and destroy the heart of ballroom dancing itself.

Wondered why it was strange and different on floor another art form screwed

I generally do not support the idea but I could see a separate competitive circuit

I believe this would be fair at all levels.  Just as different styles and levels are on the floor at different time/heats, This  would allow a clear identification of leader and follower whether AM/AM or Pro/AM and evaluation would be fair for all.

of course any gender should be able to compete. Ridiculous question. Who are you to judge the genders of any couples.

The style of same sex couples is markedly different so I think should have their own separate division but for heavens sake, otherwise so what.

Oh for gods sake, it's the 21st century why can't any couple dance. I'm never going to lead but if some woman wants to, why not?

No.

Sick of hearing all the political correctness. The attire for a man dancing male steps is a tail suit and woman dancing female is a dress. Rules are being broken if this is not adhered too. Keep the tradition of male/ female together dancing. It does not need to be any other way.

As long as they play by the same set of rules that are on the rest of us at the same level (i.e., no switching roles from lead to follow during the dance), I say bring on the additional competition and may the best competitors win.