Oxford Takes a Stand: New “Angel Shot” Initiative to Enhance Nightlife Safety
OXFORD, Miss. – As the vibrant fall semester kicks off, students in Oxford are bustling around, enjoying what college life has to offer. However, with fun often comes the need for safety, and that’s where a fantastic new initiative comes into play. The College Panhellenic Council, in partnership with the Associated Student Body, local bars, and the Oxford Police Department, has launched the “Angel Shot” program.
A Simple Code for Safety
But what exactly is the “Angel Shot”? It’s a clever code that allows anyone feeling uncomfortable or unsafe at a bar to communicate their need for help discreetly. If you’re at a bar and don’t feel right about a situation, simply ask the bartender for an “Angel Shot”. This not-so-secret signal alerts bar staff that you need assistance without drawing unwanted attention to yourself. It’s a way to ask for help while keeping the conversation easy and low-key.
Holley Jean Garrison, a member of the Ole Miss Panhellenic Council, shared the importance of this initiative, saying, “I do events here within Greek life, and it’s very important for me to feel safe and to ensure that I can get home safely. It’s about creating a protective environment for everyone.”
Support Right Where You Are
In addition to the “Angel Shot” program, the Oxford Police Department is also making its presence felt by setting up canopies at key locations for anyone needing immediate help. You can find these helpful officers at East Jackson Avenue across from Funkys Pizza & Daiquiri Bar and near The Library Sports Bar on South 11th Street. Don’t hesitate to approach them! Sgt. Diarra Giddens encourages everyone to reach out, saying, “Coming up to us doesn’t mean you’re going to get in trouble. A lot of times, our main goal and your goal are one and the same.”
A Community Focused on Improvement
Garrison acknowledges that there are definite challenges within the community, stating, “We are all aware of the problems that go on, and we want to improve them for women instead of just letting them continue.” This collaborative approach is aimed at fostering trust and accountability in local nightlife, allowing students to focus on enjoying their time with friends.
Resources Available
For those who might need extra support, the University of Mississippi provides services through its health center that specialize in assisting individuals facing sexual assault or domestic violence situations. Additionally, you can reach out to nationwide resources such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE. These services remind us that help is just a call away.
The Bigger Picture
Finally, the launch of initiatives like the “Angel Shot” is part of a larger movement to create safe spaces in our communities. It offers peace of mind for students venturing out for a night of fun, knowing that protective measures are actively being put in place. It’s about standing together: bar staff, law enforcement, and the student body, all united to ensure that nightlife is enjoyable for everyone.
So as the semester unfolds and nightlife in Oxford gets into full swing, remember that looking out for each other is key. Safety doesn’t have to be a burden; with programs like these, it can be part of the fun.
