Workshop

Workshop Overview

Safer Spaces Lab is an exploratory workshop promoting a reflexive, participatory, and mutual learning environment where participants can discuss and strategize on prioritizing safety, harm reduction, and inclusivity in nightlife settings. 

The workshop is based on the experiences and expertise of Kosmicare, a Portuguese NGO specialized in harm reduction targeting people who use drugs by working on three main axes: research, community-based intervention, and advocacy. Kosmicare has been leading the development and implementation of innovative harm reduction services such as drug checking, psycare (psychological first aid in large-scale festivals), lilac care (protocols to deal with people who experienced sexist violence or discrimination in nightlife environments), and individual psychological support led by the principles of harm reduction, empowerment, and compassionate care. 

Objectives

Main Objective:

To enhance awareness and understanding of harm reduction, care, and the creation of safer spaces in nightlife environments, focusing on the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Sub-Objectives

1. Identify the specific risks, challenges, and priorities of LGBTQIA+ people in nightlife settings.

2. Understand the harm reduction principles and their application in nightlife environments.

3. Discuss strategies for creating and maintaining safer spaces and a culture of care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and other historically oppressed groups in nightlife venues.

Elegible Applicants

• Researchers in Night Studies with focus on LGBTQIA+ harm reduction and gender-responsive models of care

• Nightlife venue owners and staff
• Event organizers
• Members and allies of the LGBTQI+ community
• Health and social workers involved in harm reduction
• DJs, performers, and artists within the nightlife scene

Duration: 1.5 hours

Number of participants: 20 max. (participants at 5th ICNS.LX have priority)

Deadline of applications: 30 June 2024

Drivers: Cristiana Pires (UCP, Kosmicare) & Manuel Garcia-Ruiz (CIES. ISCTE-IUL, INSN)

Post-Workshop Support

Participants will be provided with a digital resource pack, including harm reduction guides, contact information for support services, and templates for safer space policies. 

This workshop is designed to be an engaging, informative, and practical session that empowers participants to make nightlife environments safer and more inclusive for everyone, with a special focus on the needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. “Safer Spaces Lab” aims to contribute to a more respectful, caring, and enjoyable nightlife culture through education, discussion, and collaborative action.