"This kind of abhorrent behavior can not and will not be tolerated…"
The Gaslight Anthem have commented on reports that fans sadly experienced sexual assault and harassment at their The ’59 Sound anniversary gigs.
"We've been angered and saddened to hear reports of sexual assault and harassment in the audience at our shows," the New Jersey group tweeted. "From the very beginning of this band, we have strived to create a positive and safe environment for our fans and this kind of abhorrent behavior can not and will not be tolerated at our shows."
They then went on to praise the Safe Gigs For Women initiative, and urged fans to speak out if they see anything inappropriate happening in the audience.
Read their statement below:
To our Gaslight family:
We've been angered and saddened to hear reports of sexual assault and harassment in the audience at our shows. From the very beginning of this band, we have strived to create a positive and safe environment for our fans and this kind of abhorrent behavior can not and will not be tolerated at our shows. It's clear that this disturbing trend is on the rise in our industry, and that ignoring or dismissing the problem sends a very clear message to perpetrators that they can get away with their behavior. As a result, we want to help to shine a light on the issue and ask our fans to do the same. We’ve reached out to the authorities and the venues that were involved in these incidents.
There are a number of amazing organizations raising awareness and providing education around this problem, including Safe Gigs For Women.
If you see something please say something, get involved, and help however you can. We want everyone looking out for each other.
It goes without saying that we absolutely echo their sentiments. Check out all the amazing work Safe Gigs For Women do right here.
