China: In a significant move to address concerns about sexual harassment, a private club named Dark Palace in southeastern Chinas Guangdong province has implemented a policy requiring all male visitors to sign an agreement pledging not to sexually harass female guests. This decision comes in response to previous complaints about incidents of sexual harassment within the club.The announcement was made through the clubs official WeChat account, where it stated, In the future, all males who want to enter Dark Palace should sign the letter of agreement regarding anti-sexual harassment.While emphasizing the clubs commitment to nurturing a healthy underground music community without unnecessary restrictions, the management expressed that recent outrageous incidents compelled them to take this step. According to the letter of agreement, “If youre the kind of people who love music, equality, and fraternity, you will find it cool to sign this.”Club requests to avoid physical contact with strangersThe letter also includes a plea for both male and female members to refrain from physical contact and verbal harassment with strangers. To enforce this policy, the club has outlined consequences for violators, stating that any male visitor breaking the rules will be blacklisted, and a police complaint might be filed. The club made it clear that those who oppose the agreement are not welcome, stating, We dont welcome you. No admittance.Diverse reaction to clubs decisionThe decision has sparked a mixed range of reactions on social media. Some users applaud the clubs proactive stance in safeguarding women and preventing harassment. Concurrently, there are voices advocating for similar agreements for female visitors.
