On Prioritizing Safe Spaces: Mobilizing the Bev Community
And what we can learn from the rapid response of grassroots organizing when a climate disaster strikes.
We are living through a shit storm….politically, socially, and environmentally. But if there’s one thing we know, it’s that when we mobilize, when we show up for one another, we can turn things around. We’ve done it before. Now it’s time to do it again.
The Bevolution is Back
After a brief hiatus, we’re returning with a renewed sense of purpose. Our mission has always been clear: to support women, nonbinary, and LGBTQ+ individuals in the beverage and hospitality sectors. But our broader purpose is even more critical right now: addressing systemic inequality, amplifying vital resources, and advocating for a world where justice and dignity are a given for all people.
Globally, women, nonbinary individuals, and LGBTQ+ communities are facing increasing threats to their rights, their bodies, and their choices.
Here in the U.S., things have reached a tipping point. We are under a leadership that not only embodies moral corruption but actively works to undermine basic human rights.
We are facing a nation led by a convicted felon and rapist, climate change denial amidst human-caused climate disasters, the overturning of Roe vs Wade and scaling back of abortion rights, plans for mass deportations of migrants, dismantling Diversity Equity and Inclusion - an intentional attempt to undo progress in DEI and create barriers, and threats to trans and nonbinary rights. Consider platforms like TikTok being banned, only to return under the guise of "safeguards," portraying leadership as a savior, while Meta scales back its hate speech and abuse policies, making online spaces increasingly hostile.
We cannot remain passive bystanders and just doom scroll while human rights are on the line daily. We cannot allow all the progress that has been made to create a more equitable world just stop. We will not go back in time.
We can’t afford to let despair or burnout keep us from fighting back. Yes, we have to protect our mental and emotional health, but we must also recognize that every action from signing a petition, organizing a mutual aid fundraiser, attending a rally, volunteering your time, sharing your voice, learning how to be an active bystander to step in and help someone, or offering resources makes a HUGE difference.
But here’s what we know: History has shown us that when communities come together, we can make change happen. And that’s exactly what we need to do now.
SAFE SPACES NOW
In a world feeling uncertain, we need more safe spaces than ever. And here’s the thing: bars, breweries, restaurants, and other alcohol-serving venues have the potential to be these safe havens. These spaces have historically served as places for community connection. Why can’t we make them spaces for collective action, as well?
But here’s the crucial question: how do we make sure these spaces are truly safe for women, nonbinary, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ+ community?
Whether you work in a bar, own a venue, or frequent a local watering hole, here’s your chance to step up and take action.
How to Create a Safe Space:
Be an Active Bystander:
Learn how to be an active bystander so you can step in when you see someone being harassed or discriminated against. If you own or manage a business, offer staff and patrons training on effective bystander intervention techniques. Set up a training or get involved with SAFE Bar Network, Defend Yourself, Good Night Out Campaign, RAINN.
Show Your Values:
Display inclusive signage that shows your anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies, include all gender restroom signs, display a pride flag, and ensure visuals around the bar aren’t sexist and offensive ie. posters of women in bikinis promoting beer. Also, what’s on tap? Is it the “The Nutty Brewnette” (looking at you, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse). Make sure your product options reflect your values. These are a few examples but you should talk to your staff and get community feedback.
Post your venue’s code of conduct in visible areas, like entrances, restrooms, and online channels, including websites and social media platforms. Include specific language emphasizing zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, or violence.
Regularly share your values through posts and updates on social media to reinforce your commitment to inclusivity.
Collaborate with Community Organizations and Host Inclusive Events
Partner with local advocacy groups, nonprofits, or community organizations that align with your mission of inclusivity and equity. Host events that celebrate diversity and actively welcome marginalized groups. Examples include: LGBTQ+ nights or mixers, fundraisers for causes related to equity and inclusion, or workshops on allyship and creating inclusive environments.
Provide Resources and Tools for Staff and Patrons:
Offer diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training to employees. And despite whatever is happening here in the US right now, DEI is still a priority!
Provide informational materials, such as flyers or QR codes linking to local support organizations and helplines.
Have a clear and accessible reporting system for incidents of harassment or discrimination.
Gather Feedback and Adapt:
Encourage open communication by providing a way for staff and patrons to share feedback on the environment. Use anonymous surveys or suggestion boxes to gather insights on how to improve safety and inclusivity.
Ensure Accountability:
Make sure that policies are enforced consistently. If someone violates the code of conduct, take appropriate action immediately. Communicate transparently about how you address issues to build trust in your commitment to a safe space.
So this shitstorm we are in is about to turn into a flaming hot shit tornado, and we need to prioritize safe spaces.
What can we learn from climate disasters when it comes to mobilizing for human rights?
When a natural disaster strikes, we see people from all walks of life coming together to provide immediate relief. In my hometown of Los Angeles, the recent fires have displaced thousands. The outpouring of support—from fundraisers to donation drives, people opening their homes, and others offering services—has been nothing short of inspiring.
NOTE: If you are able to support or help spread the word, consider Another Round Another Rally’s Disaster Relief Fund and Regarding Her’s Women-Owned Food & Bev Businesses LA Fire Recovery Fund. There is also a public Google doc circulating with hospitality workers affected by the fires and their GoFundMe links here.
We don’t need to wait for the next disaster to act. We can and should apply this same sense of urgency to social justice. Why can’t we mobilize like this for women’s rights? For trans rights? For racial justice? For the unhoused?
Channeling the Power of Community Action
This is a daily fight. Human rights are under constant threat, and we need a disaster-level response to confront it. But here’s the good news: we’ve done it before, for example when we organized around the beer #MeToo movement.
Together, let’s create a future where everyone—regardless of gender, race, or identity—has a seat at the table. Let's keep the momentum going.
The question is: how will we do it together?
All it takes is one step - a conversation, reaching out, hosting a meetup, etc.
And we want to help, so if you’d like to collaborate, reach out us to us at womenofthebevolution@gmail.com.
Here are a few organizations and platforms we are tapped into that are on the front lines of human rights advocacy. Follow, support, and subscribe for updates on how you can get involved and do your part.
For those who own or are associated with an alcohol-serving venue and looking for resources to best support your staff and customers, email us and we’ll provide guidance on organizations, programs and experts who specialize in tools to prevent and respond to sexual harassment, sexual violence, and gender and racial discrimination.
If you are affiliated with a nonprofit or grassroots organization and would like to team up, we’d love to hear from you.
Email: WomenoftheBevolution@gmail.com
How can you support The Bevolution? Help us continue our programs and resources by purchasing an item from our merch store below!
Proceeds from merch items support our continued efforts in providing financial assistance and mentorship to women and nonbinary beverage industry professionals through the Bevolution Brave Voices Relief Fund and the Bevolution Creators in Bev Grant Programs.
The Bevolution Creators in Bev Grant Program is a chance to provide a platform for women and non-binary beverage industry professionals who are creating and carving their own paths in the bev world. This program provides amplification, financial aid, and mentorship. How can you get involved? Here are a few ways:
Be a mentor! Get involved and support other women and non-binary beverage industry professionals through mentorship. This opportunity is part of the Bevolution Creators in Bev Grant Program.
Host a fundraiser to help us raise funds for our grant programs, relief fund and various initiatives! If you’d like to collaborate on an event, reach out to us below!
Hire us to curate a menu or event, consult or help you release a product or launch a collab! Learn more about how we can work together below.
Another idea? Reach out to us at WomenoftheBevolution@gmail.com.
Thank you for subscribing to The Bevolution! For more updates and resources check out our Instagram @WomenoftheBevolution and WomenoftheBevolution.com.
Learn more about our affiliated initiatives below:
Brave Noise Global Beer Collaboration —> BraveNoiseBeer.com
AntiSexist AntiRacist ProEquality Beer Club Merch Fundraiser —> ProEqualityBeerClub.com