Safety

Equality and safety

Oranssi strives for equality and safety in its activities. Equality means that we are all equal, regardless of personal characteristics. Oranssi does not tolerate discrimination, racism, harassment, or other inappropriate behavior. We intervene in situations that violate our principles of a safer space. We take diversity into account in our activities and strive to be as accessible as possible.

Oranssi has a set of principles for a safer space, which aim to create a more equal and safer atmosphere. People who visit Oranssi must act in accordance with these principles and do their part to promote a safer community.


Oranssi’s safer space policies

We respect each other and give everyone space

We talk respectfully about sensitive topics, as they may be personal to others. We give everyone space to speak and act.

We do not use intoxicants on Oranssi’s premises

We take into account that Oranssi’s events are attended by minors and people who are clearly distressed by intoxicated behavior. Oranssi has always been a substance-free space.

We respect everyone’s bodily integrity

We respect our own and others’ bodies. We do not touch others without permission and avoid commenting on others’ bodies. All forms of violence are prohibited at Oranssi.

We avoid making assumptions about others’ backgrounds and characteristics

We avoid making assumptions about others’ gender, sexuality, background, or functional capacity. We are aware of our own prejudices and assumptions. We allow everyone to be who they are.

We create a safe space together

We all take responsibility for creating a safe atmosphere. We accept mistakes, take responsibility for our own actions, and correct our behavior when necessary. We help each other.


Harassment contact person actions

Oranssi currently has one harassment contact person who can be contacted if you have encountered harassment, discrimination, bullying, threats, or other inappropriate treatment or behavior. It is important to remember that people may experience things differently: what is not harassment to one person may be harassment to another. Defining harassment is difficult because it is always linked to a person’s experience of the situation. It is therefore essential to remember to follow the principles of a safer space, which serve as a means of preventing harassment. Simply writing down principles does not make a space safer; we must all do our part to follow them so that they are put into practice.

Harassment contact persons are trained support persons with whom you can discuss harassment situations. They offer advice on how to deal with harassment situations and, if necessary, refer the matter further. They are not authorities but volunteers at Oranssi. Harassment contact persons act impartially and confidentially, are bound by professional secrecy, and do not take further action without the consent of the person concerned. You can also contact a harassment contact person if you just want to discuss harassment you have experienced or witnessed.

During events, the harassment contact person can be identified by their pink vest. Other volunteers wearing orange pins are also available to help, and we hope that you will feel comfortable approaching us if anything happens. You can also contact the harassment contact person after the event have ended.

Harassment contact persons and contact details

If you feel that you have been harassed or have witnessed harassment, please do not hesitate to contact the harassment contact person.

Emmi Kaartinen

Hi,

I’m Emmi (she/they), the new anti-harrassement contact person of Oranssi. I’ve been going to Oranssi’s events, mainly gigs, and organized (together with friends) sometimes something there as well!

In my free time I like to play board and video games and try to find time to read books and watch movies as well. I commute by bike (though not in the winter —yet), and try to learn to play some instruments (atm learning mandolin, drums and accordion…).

I really like all (most?) things diy and punk! I try to be more present at Oranssi’s events, and I want to try to do my share of making our spaces safer. I hope you feel you can approach me via email or in person with low threshold!

Contact Emmi by email at emmi.kaartinen(a)oranssi.net.