The development of a network of "safe places" for women victims of domestic violence and street harassment has materialized, at the initiative of Marlene Schiappa.
It was on social networks that the Secretary of State for Equality between Men and Women presented a new government plan to combat street harassment: the Angela plan. Some time ago, Marlene Schiappa returned, for us, to the threats that hang over women in today's world. Among these, she denounced street harassment. This Friday, she announced the establishment of labeled places. These places, considered safe, will be able to help women who are victims of domestic violence and street harassment. With code “Ask Angela” they can be saved.
Our goal is to make this network of safe places as wide as possible.
Sure France Info, the secretary of state explained: "This plan aims to better protect women from street harassment. Women will be able to enter all labeled places – bars, restaurants, shops or pharmacies – when they are followed, that they feel insecure on the street and say just 'I ask to see Angela.' It is a device that has already proven itself in the United States and it allows many women to feel protected and to see a way out when danger threatens them while there is no presence of law enforcement on the horizon. These places can be bars, restaurants or pharmacies ready to welcome victims of harassment. On Twitter, Marlene Schiappa explains in a publication presenting the Angela plan: "VTC platforms will be brought together, a compulsory module against violence will be integrated into the examination of drivers. Uber offers 1000 journeys for victims. Bus stops on demand will be generalized."
How will a harassed woman know if a business is labeled?
Marlene Schiappa wishes to widen this national emergency as much as possible: "Our aim is to make 'this network of safe places' as wide as possible. At the beginning, we may have 5, 10, 20, 50, and then it will go further"she explained to France Info. She adds that it is a question of volunteering as a trader: "I find that society is increasingly committed to protecting women from gender-based and sexual violence, so I am confident that we will easily find partners with UN Women."
How to react to street harassment?
by Melanie Bonvard