Creating safer spaces
Principles and practical tools for creating a safer space at Moth Goes Kink -Festival
Our goal is to create an environment where everyone can feel accepted for who they are. We aim to promote open-mindedness, space-giving, understanding, and a culture that supports learning - also from potential mistakes.
In this article, we present how these principles are put into practice and how the festival ensures the safety and well-being of its participants.
Open-mindedness and respect for others
Open-mindedness means that we do not make assumptions about others' backgrounds, such as ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.
Understanding does not mean projecting one's own experiences onto others, but the ability to accept that other people's experiences and opinions may differ from our own. This approach helps create an atmosphere where people can express themselves freely.
Safer space and its principles
A safer space means a place where one can act freely without fear of discrimination, violence, or silencing. Participants in the festival want to feel seen and heard, supported, and part of a community where everyone's values and experiences are respected. This applies to both physical and psychological safety.
Communication
A safer space starts with communication. Clear communication is aimed at ensuring that both festival guests and the organizing team have sufficient knowledge and skills to take responsibility for everyone’s safety and to offer assistance in situations that may require support.
Harassment, Discrimination, and Bullying
Moth Goes Kink Festival has a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, discrimination, and bullying. We use clear guidelines and language that support everyone's rights and respect for each other's boundaries.
Awareness team and support in problematic situations
The festival has an Awareness team that monitors the atmosphere, guides regarding festival rules and etiquette, and acts as a low-threshold support resource for guests when necessary.
Early support in challenging situations helps reduce stress and ensures a pleasant festival experience for everyone.
Additionally, throughout the weekend, a trained harassment support person is available to offer conversation and assistance in conflict situations that may arise.
Addressing basic needs
Creating a safe space is not limited to physical and emotional safety but also includes meeting basic needs, such as food and rest.
This is addressed by offering delicious vegan food throughout the weekend, grounding festival program, and providing "kink-free" zones for relaxation and retreat if needed.
The kitchen areas in the accommodation zones are also kink-free, where guests who have a room can unwind in the midst of the festival buzz.
We have trained first aid professional in location in case you'll trip on the stairs on your awesome platforms.
Saunas and hot tubs also serve to support visitors' well-being.
Conclusion
Moth Goes Kink Festival is committed to developing an event where safety and well-being are a priority. This is only possible if every participant, employee, and volunteer shares the responsibility for creating a safe and respectful space.
The principles of a safer space are not just guidelines but active practices where everyone can influence the atmosphere of the festival. Our goal is for festival attendees to enjoy the event without fear, discomfort, or harassment, and for everyone to feel heard and valued.
If you have professional expertise on the subject, we are happy to hear how we can ensure that we have taken everything into account.