Violeta M. Bagia
Ask for Angela…a crucial step in the right direction
The ‘Ask for Angela’ campaign has gained global attention since its initial introduction in the UK in 2016.
The success of the code word has propelled the campaign forward and has recently been rolled out across NSW and now SA.
Since its inception, multiple venues including hotels, bars and pubs around the country have taken steps to ensure the campaign is welcomed in their establishments via a colourful yet effective poster.

This is a crucial step in the right direction to help combat sexual violence.
In today’s society where online dating has taken off and has become the norm, the scene can often be intimidating. Men and women should be having fun and feeling safe when they’re hitting the bars, not constantly wondering what could happen should things get out of hand.

Thanks to the campaign, if someone feels uncomfortable in a potentially dangerous situation, they’re encouraged to walk up to the bar and ask for Angela, the staff then discretely escort the person to safety.
Having seen firsthand how unwanted sexual advances can quickly get out of hand, it’s reassuring to know that there are options, a way to get to safety without putting yourself at further risk.
Although we do unfortunately live in a world where the threat is still prevalent, we are moving in the right direction and, if you feel at risk, ask for Angela.