safe space

[strangedave]

When the issue of 'safe spaces' has come up, in discussion at Swancon and elsewhere (I certainly have other contexts in which I need to think about it), I've tended to harp on about the issue of perceived safety vs actual safety. There are a few incidents that have made me worry that when a safe is perceived as safe, but isn't, it can lead to it

Comments

[nephron]

"simply assume fandom is one big happy family"

Of course, if you wanted fandom to be one big happy family, you have to challenge bad behaviours etc. anyway, I don't know of any happy families which allow boundaries to run unpoliced.

[strangedave]

good point. A functional family is one that doesn't leave bad behaviour go unchallenged.

[transcendancing]

Still really appreciating! (am sure I'll have other words eventually)

[strangedave]

This is not my experience. I have seen situations occur where that was a large part of it, yes (and I've just friended you so you can read about one of them in my previous post), but I also know of situations where, as far as I know, intoxication played no part at all. Sobriety is sensible, but its no guarantee of safety.