The Angel Shot

Photo by: Ashley Alonzo

As sexual assault becomes more and more common in our communities, it is important that we take action. Four bars and restaurants around the world started what could be a life saver: the “angel shot.”

Iberian Rooster, located in St. Petersburg, Florida, initiated this in December, and it turned into a complete success. The picture posted by the restaurant went viral on the internet, and now several bars in Florida, California, South Africa and England are implementing the concept of an “angel shot.”

Women should look for signs in bathrooms that give instructions to what kind of drink they should order in unsafe situations. Some could feel unsafe during a regular date, others might feel harassed or even concerned if their Tinder date is not the same person as on the dating profile. All of these situations, and more, are valid reasons to order this drink.

In Hooters South Africa and in the Iberian Rooster in Florida they instruct women to order the “angel shot” with different variations depending on what they need.

Neat: The bartender will escort them to their cars.

With ice: The bartender will call an Uber or Lyft for them.

With lime: The bartender will call the police.

Although the concept of a safety drink remains the same, the shot is starting to receive different names around the world. At The Brickyard in England, they encourage women to order a “Rachelle” or a “Jennifer” if they need an escort or the police.

According to Business Insider, other anti-rape organizations are backing the concept. The Lincolnshire Rape Crisis support organization is asking women around the world to order an “Angela” if they feel unsafe.

As the movement grows, it is important that our town keeps up with the creation of this life-saving shot. We encourage our students, faculty, staff and community members to suggest the idea to Ottawa’s local bars and restaurants.

Sexual assault, however, does not only happen to women. That is why some of these bars are looking for men’s opinions to decide the name of their safe drink. Men too, should make a suggestion to our local businesses.