In an era where the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges in public spaces, a groundbreaking initiative has emerged through the collaboration of Luciana and Nicholas Cousin. In 2021, motivated by a personal connection to the issue, they launched “Back Off. Back Up.” (BOBU), an application designed to guide individuals to safe spaces. This digital haven marks a significant step towards fostering a secure environment, offering refuge and support in venues vetted for their commitment to inclusivity and safety.
A Response to Violence
The genesis of BOBU was catalyzed by an unsettling increase in anti-LGBTQ+ violence, evidenced by alarming statistics indicating significant rises in hate crimes. Luciana’s insights into the ordeal faced by their friends, who found themselves vulnerable after being attacked, underscored a critical gap in community safety nets. The app’s development was not just a technological venture but a mission to fill this gap, ensuring that no one within the community feels abandoned in times of need.
Beyond Safety: A Vision for the Future
BOBU transcends the conventional scope of a safety app. Through a comprehensive training program for participating venues, it emphasizes both physical and emotional well-being, integrating features like anonymous sexual health testing and user feedback on safety experiences. The ambition of Luciana and Nicholas extends to a future where BOBU is a ubiquitous companion for the LGBTQ+ community across Europe, symbolizing a beacon of trust and security. Their ongoing efforts to expand the app’s reach and capabilities, including plans to encompass care homes, reflect a commitment to a society where safety and acceptance are universal.