Reeperbahn Festival

Our festival should be a place where all people treat each other considerately and take responsibility for others. We want to facilitate the exchange of different perspectives at eye level in an environment where everyone can feel as comfortable and safe as possible. 

For us, this means at the same time: Maybe does not mean yes! And: Saying nothing does not mean yes! 

Consensus means consent and demands to ask for it explicitly. We cannot know where other people's boundaries are and therefore want to ask. 

We are convinced that language creates reality, which is also reflected in actions and thoughts. 

For us, this means that we are concerned with gender-neutral, inclusive language and strive for this in our communication both internally and externally. 

We want to address all people, regardless of their gender identity. You can use the name instead of a pronoun or ask for the pronoun to be used. 

This means for us in consequence that people who present these symbols in the form of tattoos or clothing will be excluded from the Reeperbahn Festival. 

For us, this means active and intersectional anti-discrimination work. We confront our privileges and want to give space for a diversity of perspectives. We want to act as allies for those who experience structural discrimination and use our resources to make our spaces safer. 

For us, this means actively opposing a society in which affected persons' perspectives are systematically made invisible. We do not doubt what has happened and support affected persons in what they need by responding to their needs and demands. Our goal is that affected persons can feel safer again and do not have to leave the place. 

Distract by approaching the potentially affected person, e.g. under a pretext, thus giving him or her a chance to escape the situation.

If you feel safe doing so, confront the performer directly. Is there security around? Are there other people who could assist you? Ask the perpetrator to stop their abusive behavior. If necessary, explain why the behavior is unwelcome.

If none of these options are possible or you don't feel comfortable intervening yourself, wait out the situation and then approach the potentially affected person again later, checking in with them and offering support if necessary or referring them to the awareness team. 

If none of these options are possible or you don't feel comfortable intervening yourself, wait out the situation and then approach the potentially affected person again later, check in with them and offer support if needed or refer them to the Awareness Team.

In some cases, it can help to document a situation so you can pass it on to a responsible person later. What happened? Who was involved? If you observe active violence, it may be useful to take a photo or video to help you recognize the perpetrator.