Creating a safer and regular event at Hackett House
(aka "Together we can be responsible for something awesome")
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The original safer spaces invitation for Hackett House shows was written by Luke and Stono. To keep with the participatory aspect of "Safer Spaces" we welcome all suggestions for addition and alterations to the document&183;
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In opening a space that aims to bring our collective focus back to the power music possesses in allowing us to express ourselves and communicate with one another, we see a safer spaces policy as a logical step in this process.
This is an invitation to ALL people at Hackett House shows to participate in making these shows as possible for everyone (ie. Safer) and make them a common and long running event. Everyone is responsible for how these shows take shape.
Things you can do to make the space 'safer':
Respect the physical and emotional space of others. Allow them the space they need to talk, dance, move, be themselves and to make their own decisions.
Be aware of any privilege you may have based on your gender, race, sexuality, religion, age or "scene status" and how it could exclude or discriminate against others in the space.
Be aware of personal space. Personal boundaries are different for all people. Unless you know the person well, try not to assume what others are comfortable with. Pay attention to people's body language and always, if in doubt, just ask.
Listen to people if they approach you about your behaviour and be open to any criticism they may have. Remember, you are responsible for your own behaviour.
If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable:
Talk to the person about how their behaviour is making you feel unsafe or uncomfortable and ask that they stop.
Have a friend with you for support when you approach the person or have them act on your behalf.
If you still have problems with the person's behaviour after trying to deal with it yourself, you can talk to Luke and/or Stono about it.
Sometimes it can be a great help to just physically remove yourself from a situation, such as moving away from the person or sitting in the hallway.
Alcohol and Drugs
We ask that you do not bring any alcohol or drugs into the space. You may also be refused entry if you try to enter the space under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs.
However, we recognise that there will be times where we may not notice that someone is under the influence and they will be allowed in. If you are planning on drinking or taking drugs before coming to the show consider how it may affect your behaviour toward others.
Also, consider the effect it could have on the space. Having a publicly known presence of alcohol or drugs in an all ages space can cause opposition from sections of the local community as well as a negative response from the police or council towards the events, the space and Bankstown Youth Development Service.
Keeping shows at Hackett House
The Hackett House space is used by many local groups and managed by BYDS (Bankstown Youth Development Service). Please respect the space and its equipment so we can keep the space available for shows, as well as the other groups who use it and those who will use it in the future.
Also, consider the possibility of your behaviour in the local area at the time of the show affecting the space. Spaces in the past have been restricted from holding shows by the police and/or councils because of public disturbances in the area at the time of the shows.
Contact
If you have any further questions, comments or points to discuss please don't hesitate to email us at hacketthouseshows[at]gmail[dot]com or talk to Luke or Stono at the show.