Office of the District Attorney
The S.A.F.E. Bar Program
District Attorney Ron Freitas, the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, and the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center are proud to introduce the Sexual Assault-Free Environment (SAFE) Bar Program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering a safer and more secure environment within bars and nightlife establishments. Recognizing the importance of creating spaces that are free from sexual assault and harassment, the SAFE Bar Program focuses on providing specialized training to bar staff to develop protocols that enhance safety measures.
Program Objectives
- Bar Staff Training
- Protocol Development
- Promotion of a Respectful Environment
- Ongoing Support and Resources
Bar Staff Training
The core of the SAFE Bar Program is a specialized training curriculum designed to equip bar staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, prevent, and respond to instances of sexual assault and harassment.
Training modules cover topics such as recognizing red flags, bystander intervention, de-escalation techniques, and appropriate communication strategies.
Protocol Development
The program guides bar staff in the creation and implementation of tailored protocols to enhance safety within their establishments.
Protocols may include procedures for handling incidents of harassment, securing premises, communicating with patrons, and collaborating with law enforcement when necessary.
Promotion of a Respectful Environment
Emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of respect, the program encourages bars to adopt policies that promote inclusivity and zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. Awareness campaigns within bars aim to educate patrons about creating a safer environment for everyone.
Ongoing Support and Resources
The program offers ongoing support to bars through updates on best practices, and additional training sessions as needed.
Establishments receive access to a range of resources, including informational materials, contact information for support organizations, and legal guidance.
By participating in the SAFE Bar Program, bars become active contributors to the creation of safer communities, sending a clear message that sexual assault and harassment will not be tolerated in their establishments. The San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office and Family Justice Center is committed to working collaboratively with bars to build a network of SAFE spaces, promoting a culture of respect and safety within the nightlife community.