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In the world of sexual violence prevention, you’ll often hear, “there is always a survivor in the room.” It’s a reminder of the prevalence of sexual violence and a reminder of the importance of centering the experiences of survivors in the work that we do.
During SAFE Bar Training conversations when someone uses victim-blaming language or repeats a myth about sexual violence we see it as an opportunity to show support for survivors and encourage continued learning. By choosing what ideas we give time to and power to we send a strong message of support.
With the prevalence of “cancel culture” our response is an opportunity to model what support can look like in a workplace focused on changing the culture and taking action to keep people safe. It’s far more effective to say, “I hear what you are saying but it sounds like the group thinks we have a responsibility to help out in this situation” than to say “your wrong about that”.
When we head into a SAFE Bar Training focused on providing the staff support every exchange becomes an opportunity to model a culture that supports honesty, open dialogue, and accountability.
At the SAFE Bar Network we’re guided by our core values. We build trust, show respect, model accountability, facilitate connection, and give support because that is the foundation of culture change.
To learn more about joining the SAFE Bar Network contact us at safebarnetwork@gmail.com
If you have a favorite bar, restaurant or night club encourage them to join the SAFE Bar Network. They can learn more at www.safebarnetwork.org
To learn more about active bystander skills check out our blog post, Obstacles. What obstacles? 3 Full Proof Everyday Active Bystander Skills.
There are everyday active bystanders practicing these skills every day. Watch their stories here, Everyday Active Bystanders.
Interested in learning more about bystander intervention? Visit our friends at With Us Center for Bystander Intervention.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault our partners can help. Visit MOCSA.org and RAINN.org
To learn more about the field of sexual violence response and prevention visit PreventConnect.org and NSVRC.org