Finding Common Ground Among

America's Dance Organizations

UNITY, Inc.  -  Uniting America’s Dance Organizations

In August 1995, representatives of dance teacher organizations from around the country began to meet informally to discuss mutual concerns.  Historically, the organizations had tended to view each other more as competitors than allies, but as leaders of the individual organizations became acquainted, they recognized that they shared many goals and that working together would benefit the dance community. 

 The first UNITY meeting was initiated and hosted by Dance Masters of America's National Executive Committee in New York City in August 1995.  Subsequent meetings have been in Memphis, in August 1996, hosted by Southern Association of Dance Masters; Boston, in August 1997, hosted by Dance Teachers Club of Boston A/S; and Raleigh, in August 1998, hosted by Carolina Dance Masters.  In addition, each January since 1997, a meeting has been held in New York City.  Total membership in the organizations participating in UNITY meetings over the years numbers in the tens of thousands.

 In January 1998, representatives from 19 organizations met to form a permanent coalition.  Some of the member organizations have been influencing dance education in the US for more than 100 years, few have been in existence for less than 20 years.  UNITY, Inc. includes large national organizations as well as mid-size organizations and smaller, local associations.  Each is valued for its individual identity and retains autonomy, while working cooperatively within UNITY.

 Original Issues identified to be addressed include, in no particular order:

Standards and processes for dance teacher certification
Teacher training and continuing education
IRS classification of dance instruction in Amusement & Recreation Services
Effects of competitions on dance education/training
Unethical practices in our profession
Music licensing for dance classes
Group health and other insurance
Advertising costs in dance publications and general population publications
Mechanisms for sharing ideas and experience among organizations
Developing a list "bank" of master teachers and adjudicators
Educating the public about quality dance education/training

 UNITY, Inc. held the first “official” Annual Meeting January 9 & 10, 1999, at the Marriott Marquis hotel in NYC.  Each January leaders of organizations from across the country continue to meet in NYC .  UNITY has earned 503(c )status and is now officially titled UNITY of America's Dance Organizations.

Contact:   Patricia Cohen, patcohen1@optonline.net, 453 High Cliffe  Lane, Tarrytown, NY 10591, (914)332-9566