Behavior Protocol
for the Code
"Is Luisa here?"
in Bars, Clubs, and Comparable Settings
Target Group: Youth, Friends, Bar Staff, Bouncers/Security
  • I. Background and Meaning of the Code
    • What does “Is Luisa Here?” mean? “Luisa is here” or the question “Is Luisa Here?” is an international code used by people (mostly women, but really anyone) in bars, clubs, or other event venues when they feel uncomfortable, harassed, or threatened.
    • Purpose of the Code:
      • To send an unobtrusive signal for help to staff or bystanders.
      • Avoid escalation by not directly indicating that danger is present.
      • Organize immediate support (escort, discreet resolution, and if necessary, the initiation of further steps).
  • II. Procedure for Those Affected
    • Approach the bar or security staff:
      • Go to the bar, the cash desk, the checkroom or a bouncer.
      • Say quietly yet clearly: “Is Luisa Here?”
    • Explain briefly (if possible):
      • If the situation allows, briefly state what is happening (e.g., “Someone is following me,” “I am being harassed,” “I feel unsafe.”).
  • III. Immediate Reaction of the Staff
    • Recognize the Code:
      • Every staff member or bouncer* must know that "Is Luisa here?" is an internal call for help.
    • Remain Discreet:
      • Avoid asking loudly (“What’s wrong?”) in order not to further stress the situation or alert a potential aggressor.
    • Assume Your Role:
      • Pretend you are looking for "Luisa" or letting another employee know.
      • Take swift initiative to remove the affected person from the danger zone (e.g., bring them to an office, a side room, or a quiet corner).
  • IV. Further Procedure for the Staff
    • Shielded Conversation:
      • Speak with the person in private to clarify what has happened.
      • Example questions:
        • “Are you injured or in immediate danger?”
        “Should I call you a taxi or accompany you to a safe place?”
    • Organize Assistance:
      • Inform the friend group: if friends are present, bring the affected person to them or ask them to pick her up.
      • Involve the security team: in cases of acute danger or if escalation seems imminent, the security staff should intervene (e.g., instructing the aggressor to leave the club).
      • Call emergency services (112): if a crime has occurred or there is a heightened risk, involve the police.
    • Possible Support Measures:
      • Use the phone: offer to facilitate a safe phone call or to inform relatives if needed.
      • Escort: a staff member or security guard can accompany the person to a taxi, their car, or outside.
  • V. Recommendations for Friends or Nearby Guests
    • Observe the Situation:
      • If you notice someone asking “Is Luisa Here?”, approach them and calmly offer help (e.g., “Can I accompany you?” or “Would you like to go to your friends?”).
    • Inform the Staff:
      • If the bar staff hasn’t noticed the situation yet, alert them by saying: “Someone just asked ‘Is Luisa Here?’—she needs help.”
    • Aftercare:
      • If you know the person, stay with them until they feel safe again or have arrived home.
  • VI. Role of the Bouncer or Security
    • Immediate Identification:
      • Note when someone uses the code.
      • Keep an eye out for concerning situations (e.g., if a person is being restrained against their will or harassed).
    • Separation of the Affected Person and the Aggressor:
      • If a specific troublemaker is identified, security may discreetly speak to them and, if necessary, ask them to leave.
      • Check if further danger exists and whether the police need to be called.
    • Escort:
      • Accompany the affected person to a safe area or to the outside.
    • Collaboration:
      • Maintain contact with the bar staff: when someone “searches for Luisa,” support the team in discreetly implementing the help concept.
  • VII. Follow-Up and Documentation
    • Documentation:
      • Record the date, time, and a brief summary of the situation (what happened and which measures were taken).
      • In cases of offenses (e.g., sexual harassment, bodily harm), make notes that might later serve as a memory aid for the police.
    • Team Debriefing:
      • After the incident, hold a short briefing to discuss what went well and what could be improved next time.
    • Raising Awareness:
      • Continuously train the staff on “Is Luisa Here?” and similar distress signals (for example, the code phrase “Angel Shot”) so that they can always react appropriately.
Summary:
  • Understanding the Code
    • “Is Luisa Here?” means that someone feels threatened or uncomfortable and urgently needs help.
  • Discreet Support
    • Both staff and security respond without drawing the attention of any potential aggressor.
  • Shielded Support
    • Clarify the situation in a safe environment, organize help (cab, police, friends).
  • Teamwork
    • Friends, bar staff, and bouncers work together to provide quick and discreet assistance.
  • Documentation & Follow-Up
    • Incidents are recorded to inform the police if needed and to internally improve procedures.
Our Goal:
This protocol ensures that everyone involved - whether among friends or as part of the bar/security team — can react effectively and discreetly when the code “Is Luisa Here?” is used to defuse threatening or uncomfortable situations.