…PREVENT VIOLENCE WHEN WE’RE OUT AND ABOUT
Mardi Gras is a great time to celebrate with our friends. But not everyone is happy that we’re out and about.
While homophobic violence can and does happen anywhere and anytime, more of it happens around Mardi Gras and especially on parade and party night.
Because we’re more visible during the Mardi Gras season, we can become even more of a target for violence, harassment and abuse.
Here are some ways to celebrate who we are and stay safe while we’re out and about because together we can…
Travel to and from venues with friends.
Most homophobic violence happens when people are walking in public places like streets or parks. You can stay safe by taking some basic precautions.
- There’s safety in numbers so stick with your mates when you travel between venues or to and from a party.
- Stay alert, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Cross the road if you have to avoid a situation that doesn’t feel right. If you’re alone, avoid dark streets, catch a cab and carry a whistle to alert others of danger.
- Cover up your party clothes or get changed at the party to avoid being a target.
Stick with our mates if they’re drunk or out of it.
Sometimes our mates have too much too quickly. Or they’re not sure of what they’ve taken. Or they’ve had their drink spiked. Whatever the situation, mates look after each other – because that’s what mates do.
- If you’re at one of the big events and a friend is not well, seek assistance from an ACON Rover (the ones in the bright pink vests) or a medic.
- If a friend is drunk or out of it at party or event, help them get home safely. If they’re getting a cab, stay with them until it arrives. Get them to sit in the back and make sure the driver knows your friend will call you when they’ve arrived safely at the next destination.
- If your friend is really out of it, don’t leave them on their own – either stay with them or help them get assistance.
Report all violence and harassment to the AVP by SMS 0416 905 105
The Lesbian & Gay Anti-Violence Project (AVP) works to reduce violence against members of our community. The AVP’s Report Line allows staff to offer support and assistance to victims of violence, collect data on gay and lesbian hate crimes, and advocate for better security. So it’s important that ALL incidents get reported to the AVP.
- You can make a report by SMS to 0416 905 105 or by calling the AVP on 9206 2116 or 1800 063 060. You can also report online at www.avp.acon.org.au or visit the staff at the AVP Safe Place at 60 Oxford Street (Mon-Fri: 3:30pm-6pm, Fri-Sat: 11pm - 5am)
- In an emergency call 000.
- Otherwise call the NSW Police switchboard on 9281 0000 and ask for a Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer.
- If you’re outside Sydney, you can still make an SMS report to 0416 905 105. Alternatively, you can get in touch with the staff at one of ACON’s regional offices in the Hunter, Illawarra, Northern Rivers or on the Mid North Coast.