Recognize dance as a sport
The Issue
For too long, dance has been overshadowed and categorized under cheerleading, despite having its own unique identity and demands. As a passionate dancer who has dedicated countless hours to perfecting my craft, I find it disheartening that dance is not yet recognized as a sport. We pour our sweat, time, and perseverance into mastering complex routines that are just as demanding as any other athletic pursuit.
Dance involves rigorous training, physical endurance, flexibility, and precision—qualities that are inherent to any recognized sport. Our routines are meticulously crafted and often put on display at school functions, community events, and competitions, spreading joy and culture, much like other sports do. Yet, despite our dedication, we still haven't been granted the same acknowledgment and respect that other sports receive.
In the United States alone, there are over 30,000 high school dance teams and numerous dance organizations at the collegiate and professional levels. These teams and individuals train with the same seriousness as athletes in other sports, devoting upwards of 20 hours a week to rehearsals, strength training, and performances. The physical and mental discipline required in dance warrants recognition.
Dance encompasses a wide variety of disciplines—from ballet and contemporary to hip-hop and jazz—each with its own set of skills and techniques. Like any other sport, injuries are a part of a dancer's life, with common issues being sprains, strains, and more serious conditions. However, we lack the infrastructure and support available to other sports, which often include dedicated medical staff and resources.
To further underscore the athletic nature of dance, several countries around the world, such as Australia and Canada, already recognize dance as a sport. It's time for our institutions to follow suit and provide dancers with the respect and recognition they deserve.
By signing this petition, you acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and athletic prowess of dancers everywhere. You help pave the way for dance to be officially recognized as a sport, opening doors for greater opportunities, funding, and support. Please sign this petition and help us bring dance the respect and recognition it rightly deserves.
50
The Issue
For too long, dance has been overshadowed and categorized under cheerleading, despite having its own unique identity and demands. As a passionate dancer who has dedicated countless hours to perfecting my craft, I find it disheartening that dance is not yet recognized as a sport. We pour our sweat, time, and perseverance into mastering complex routines that are just as demanding as any other athletic pursuit.
Dance involves rigorous training, physical endurance, flexibility, and precision—qualities that are inherent to any recognized sport. Our routines are meticulously crafted and often put on display at school functions, community events, and competitions, spreading joy and culture, much like other sports do. Yet, despite our dedication, we still haven't been granted the same acknowledgment and respect that other sports receive.
In the United States alone, there are over 30,000 high school dance teams and numerous dance organizations at the collegiate and professional levels. These teams and individuals train with the same seriousness as athletes in other sports, devoting upwards of 20 hours a week to rehearsals, strength training, and performances. The physical and mental discipline required in dance warrants recognition.
Dance encompasses a wide variety of disciplines—from ballet and contemporary to hip-hop and jazz—each with its own set of skills and techniques. Like any other sport, injuries are a part of a dancer's life, with common issues being sprains, strains, and more serious conditions. However, we lack the infrastructure and support available to other sports, which often include dedicated medical staff and resources.
To further underscore the athletic nature of dance, several countries around the world, such as Australia and Canada, already recognize dance as a sport. It's time for our institutions to follow suit and provide dancers with the respect and recognition they deserve.
By signing this petition, you acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and athletic prowess of dancers everywhere. You help pave the way for dance to be officially recognized as a sport, opening doors for greater opportunities, funding, and support. Please sign this petition and help us bring dance the respect and recognition it rightly deserves.
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on September 5, 2026