Astigarraga Town Council has launched a series of special measures to support women during the txotx season, when cider is drunk straight from the cask at weekends in February and March. With the aim of preventing and dealing with possible sexist assaults, an in-person support service has been set up at the Women’s House in Joseba Barandiaran square, on Saturdays from 22:00 to 4:00. Telephone assistance is also available on Fridays and Saturdays between 18:00 and 6:00 on 638 206 586, in collaboration with Hernani Town Council.

Another key resource is the Purple Tent in Joseba Barandiaran square, which will be open on Saturdays from 18:00 to 22:00. This space aims to provide an immediate response to assaults, offering support to the women affected. Several people will also wear badges with the message “Nik sinisten dizut” (“I believe you”) to give guidance and information to victims of violence.

Meanwhile, Astigarraga’s bars and restaurants have received training and a protocol for dealing with cases of sexist and racist violence, so that they can act appropriately in emergencies. The council stresses that, despite the festive atmosphere of the txotx season, aggression and disrespect will not be tolerated, and that it will look after coexistence and everyone’s well-being.

This initiative is part of a joint campaign with Hernani Town Council under the slogan “You are in our home, take care of it”, which aims to make visitors aware of the importance of respecting the residents of both towns during the txotx. Both towns have put specific resources in place to ensure a safe experience free from violence.