awareness
this exerpt is heavily copied from berghain
what can everyone do?
Take care of each other
Be respectful to others, respect their personal space and intimacy, only act upon mutual consent – only yes means yes! If you encounter a negative or molesting experience, involve friends or trusted people, and any members of the venue’s staff.
Let them know
Between friends, involve each other about your individual consumption throughout the night, what and how much of it you’ve had. With unknown substances, start with a small dose and observe the effect – or don’t use at all. Never use if you are unaccompanied.
Drink water, but don’t share around
Always stay hydrated and take sips of water, regardless if you want to remain sober, or not. Cold potable water is available for free on tab in all restroom areas. Don’t accept any liquids that have not been poured in front of your eyes at the bar. Don’t share a drink vessel with others. Have your drinks attended at all times.
Educate and protect yourself
There are many local resources available to help you stay safe and informed.
Speak up
When you observe non-consensual action, encroaching behavior or unsafe experiences, speak up, or turn to the venue’s staff.
Believe each other
When in doubt, trust an account and help other people.
Don’t forget to go home
Sleep is imperative and not a personal flaw, clubs are loud spaces, a club night isn’t a marathon – give your body a rest. When you leave, inform your friends, or have trustworthy people accompany you. Consider using a rideshare service with registered drivers, avoid going alone. Also never accept any drinks offered on your way home.
What you can do if you start feeling unwell, or affected by sexualized violence
Get immediate help from others
Inform your friends, trustworthy people around you, or professionals and describe them any changes in your condition or perception. Ask them to stay with you in case your condition worsens, but ask people you do not want to have near you to leave the situation – perpetrators may act as pretend helpers.
Involve members of staff
Every venue listed here has well-trained staff that will always assist you, whether it be runners, bar staff, coat check, or door crew. Involve them in your state of condition and what you know or suspect has led to it – they will help you, call for backup if necessary or call for medical assistance.
Seek medical attention
Condition-permitting, receive medical support resp. get admitted to hospital by calling 911, or consult a doctor. In an emergency call, only describe your physical condition and symptoms, not the suspected cause. In the presence of medical professionals, state what you deliberately consumed before your condition worsened – doctors are bound by medical confidentiality, but information will help them to help you.
If you feel like being affected by date-rape drugs – so-called drink or needle spiking – get tested for Rohypnol / Flunitrazepam, Fentanyl, Scopolamine, Propofol, Ketamine, GHB / GBL or other downers. In case of physical harm, ask for HIV and Hepatitis C post-exposure prophylaxis medication.
Secure evidence
Check your body for signs of external impact – to secure evidence of potential offences, timely action is necessary. Have bruises, body fluids (urine, sweat, spit, sperm), puncture marks, and a full blood count recorded by a professional. Many drugs can only be detected within a very short time after administration. Document any recollections of the time preceding your experience as memory minutes. Consider filing charges with police when you feel ready for it – only this way crimes can be investigated and offenders be prosecuted.
Talk with others
Do not feel sorry or guilty for what has been done to you. Talk to friends about your encounter. Seek professional counsel, support and advice.