Camp Cope Are Taking A Stand Against Sexual Harassment At Their Shows
"We believe everyone has the right to feel safe at shows."
It’s a sad fact that even in 2017, instances of violence, harassment and assault still frequently occur at live music spaces in Australia. But thankfully, we’re also beginning to see a significant shift in how the music industry and state governments respond to these incidents.
Over the last year bands such as High Tension, Luca Brasi, Camp Cope and Urthboy have publicly called out disruptive and aggressive fan behaviour at their shows, and the Victorian Government formed a taskforce dedicated to stamping out harassment at live music venues.
In September, Camp Cope spearheaded a campaign called #ItTakesOne. Its aim is to put a stop to sexual assault and harassment at gigs — the idea being that while it takes one person to fuck up a gig, it also only takes one person to step up, call it out and initiate change.
Following this, the Melbourne band teamed up with Laneway to launch a hotline at the festival, encouraging punters who experienced or witnessed disrespectful behaviour to seek help from an on-ground operator.
Now Camp Cope are taking this idea on the road for their upcoming tour, announcing that a safe-space hotline will be active at each of their shows.
“We will have tiny pieces of paper with the number which will be at the merch desk,” the band said in an Instagram post. “If you feel unsafe at all at these shows, please call the number and we will assist you because we believe everyone has the right to feel safe at shows.”
Camp Cope’s tour with US punk band Against Me! kicks off tonight in Brisbane, check out all the dates below.
Against Me! & Camp Cope tour dates
Brisbane — May 3 at the Triffid
Hobart — May 4 at the Brisbane Hotel
Melbourne — May 5 at Max Watts (sold out)
Melbourne — May 8 at Max Watts
Wollongong — May 10 at Wollongong Uni Bar
Sydney — May 11 at Manning Bar
Perth — May 12 at Rosemount Hotel
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Men can access anonymous confidential telephone counselling to help to stop using violent and controlling behaviour through the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.