Chicago Stepping lifestyle and culture is an enchanting aspect of the African-American community. Stepping originated within the African-American community in Chicago. It’s storytelling, socializing, and community building. The essence of Stepping culture directly reflected life in Chicago communities. The evolution of Chicago Stepping culture is fostered by the growing urge for self-expression, holding on to stepping traditions, and the pursuit of keeping the dance alive. The tensions and fabric of our nationwide stepping culture are seen through the similarities and differences of the people, dance instruction, events, etiquette, contests, and fashion.
More about the Stepping Culture in Chicago and Other Cities
CHICAGO IS THE MECCA OF STEPPING
ETIQUETTE AND RESPECT ARE PART OF THE FABRIC AND CULTURE
THE DANCE HAS SPREAD TO OTHER CITIES OUTSIDE OF CHICAGO
MUSIC AND REGIONAL FACTORS INFLUENCE CREATIVITY AND STYLE
REGION SPECIFIC TRAITS INFLUENCE COMMUNITY CULTURE
NO ONE DANCES THE SAME. FIND YOUR IDENTITY.
Stepping combines my passion for dance, fashion, and travel. This community fuels my creativity for all three aspects.
Etiquette
Etiquette and respect are paramount on and off the dance floor in Chicago Stepping and help to honor the traditions and history of stepping. It sets the tone for stepper set and is the fabric which sets the atmosphere for ladies and gentlemen. Class instruction for men and women who learn to step should include sharing the rules of etiquette to help foster a welcoming environment for steppers. Etiquette is a distinguishing element of stepping culture that honors women and how to treat a lady.
Events
Events in the stepping community are to bring steppers from different cities together to dance, attend instructional workshops, and have a good time. Different social groups host and execute steppers events that may go for three to four days or longer. Events usually have a theme for parties and elaborate activities to do as a group. An event is a chance to discover a different city and connect with new people. You can find a happening weekend event almost any time of the year. Steppers love to travel for the joy of stepping.
People
Learning to step and mastering its principles go beyond the dance itself—they celebrate individuality and self-expression. The most influential steppers don’t dim their lights for anyone; they are entertainers, educators, thinkers, and leaders shaping the community. Their stories, passed down through generations, are the heart of stepping culture. Through interviews and shared experiences, we gain insight into the lives of those making a lasting impact, proving that stepping is more than just movement—it’s a legacy.
Every stepper has a unique journey, story, and experience.
Fashion
Fashion is one of the most prevalent ways of self-expression for steppers. In the stepping community, the combination of our dance and our look creates our persona. Just as many of us are known for our personal fashion sense as we are known for our dance. Fashion is a big part of the experience, and intentional party themes and colors keep us imagining and creative. Welcome to a space for exploring fashion and personal style in African American culture in many ways.
Contests
Steppers’ contests, whether on the social scene or the big stage, provide a chance to “show out” and compete, especially in the Original style of stepping, where competition is key. These events showcase a variety of dance styles across different categories and take place year-round, particularly in the Midwest. With divisions for all experience levels, anyone has the chance to win cash prizes, trophies, and the ultimate reward—bragging rights.
Recent Discussion Topics | Join the conversation in our Facebook group
Footwork.
Can you teach it? Can you be a great dancer WITHOUT footwork?
Footwork is the cornerstone of this dance. You can mimic someone’s footwork but you can’t teach the heart behind someone’s expression of it……and that’s where the real work begins. Join in on this Facebook group thread
Stepping Anywhere. Where else have you been stepping outside of the stepper set?
Interesting! I do it all the time if I have my EarPods on ! Airports definitely! I actually met Jerry Dunham Jr at Midway Airport because he was stepping in baggage claim! Join in on this Facebook group thread
Birthday Lines. Are we phasing them out? What do you like or not like about the birthday line?
Birthdays should be celebrated with a Dance. I enjoy the birthday line. Let the the tradition continue. Join in on this Facebook group thread.
“A follower’s dance is only as good as the person leading her.” Do you agree?
A good lead assesses the skill level of the follower within the first 15 seconds of the dance, and adjusts his lead accordingly – 85% within their capability, 15% challenging. Join in on this Facebook group thread.