"We don't claim that our events are 'safe,' but we want to do everything we can to make them safer."
This capsule highlights the exemplary action of the OCTOV collective, represented by Pauline and her Safe Squad team. It shows how S.O.U.L. ethics come to life on the ground through a caring and trained presence, dedicated to preventing misconduct and harassment. By placing vigilance at the heart of the party, this initiative proves that a safe and inclusive environment relies on collective commitment, training and shared responsibility.
"None of this happens by itself. You have to get involved, put in the time and the will. But it pays off, because it creates a safe, caring and respectful atmosphere."
"We don't claim that our events are 'safe,' but we want to do everything we can to make them safer." — Pauline, OCTOV
"These volunteers are trained to intervene, to observe, to react: it's active vigilance in the service of goodwill."
"This isn't traditional security — it's human security, embodied."
A Montreal underground events collective known for its commitment to safer spaces. Their "House Rules" charter and the Safe Squad — a team of volunteers trained in active vigilance — are a model of community governance that inspires the S.O.U.L. movement.
OCTOV's approach demonstrates that freedom, intensity and responsibility can coexist. A space can be both underground and caring — as long as you commit to making it so.
16 conversations filmed during the October 17, 2024 workshop — the voice of those who live the night.
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