Safer Spaces: Activity 3
Artist Safety Rider Activity
“Throughout my decade as a performing musician and artist, I have had to rely on self-advocating as a queer woman in spaces that were not safe for me. Sometimes with success, often with danger and a lack of support. I wanted to create a template for other artists and musicians to use or adapt for themselves. We believe that establishing expectations and boundaries for safety and dignity before a show, partnership or event is critical and necessary to foster safer spaces for all Artists and patrons. This helps communicate what is welcome and what is not. This helps us feel safer and seen in spaces and with people who are engaging with us”. Happy boundary setting and safer, healthier artistic community creating -VB
The burden of safety should not be ours alone.
Tips for filling in and sharing your Artist Safety Rider
Be clear and short with your needs.
You can send your artist safety rider ahead of time to people to review and agree to.
If you feel hesitant about this and feel like there may be pushback or stigma attached to you as an artist or performer, we hear you. This is a reality and you can still engage in safety planning individually or with your band/friends to keep yourself safer during and after performances.
Save and print the templates below to start your Artist Safety Rider.
Example:
I will need to know who has access to the green room or shared dressing space.
I will need to review your code of conduct.
You will refer to me as ____ and my pronouns are ____.
My setup cannot be changed or altered, if the sound engineer needs adjustments they will need to communicate this with me offstage during my soundcheck.
I do not drink alcohol. I would like to have _____________ instead of drink tickets.