Global Spotlight: Inclusive Dance in South America

South America has blossoming inclusive dance communities, with companies in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile bringing kids from underserved areas into studios. Their programs don’t just teach steps—they teach confidence, teamwork, and joy. Dance becomes a lifeline, reminding participants they are seen and valued.

Queer Tango

A movement that embraces diversity and inclusion in the traditionally heteronormative tango community.

La Marshall

A cultural space in Buenos Aires that breaks traditional dance "rules", allowing for same-gender partnering in tango and promoting the idea of flexibility in partnerships.

Traditional Dances in South American

1. Forró

   1. Found in Brazil, Forró is a popular social dance that is accessible and does not have strict "rules", making it easy to beginners to join.

2. Samba

   1. Found in Brazil, Samba is a lively and joyful dance reflecting cultural expression. However, it is not a specific movement for inclusion the way that Queer Tango is.

3. Tango

   1. Tango is found in both Argentina and Uruguay and is a sensual dance that originated in the lath 19th century in Buenos Aires.

Inclusive dance is a part of the broader disability cultural movement, which focuses on celebrating the first-person experience of disability through art