Oakland Says NO MORE: Project Last Call

Professionals working within the local Pittsburgh service industry witnessed and experienced sexual harassment and violence and wanted it to stop. The local chapter of United States Bartenders Guild (USBG) Pittsburgh Chapter asked PAAR to collaborate in developing a program to address the need. PAAR, with over 40 years as the leader of response and prevention efforts in Allegheny County, accepted.

Together USBG and PAAR developed Project Last Call focused on creating a culture of change to end sexual violence. Local bars and restaurants, bartenders, servers, managers and owners reviewed, piloted and vetted Project Last Call as a crucial tool in preventing sexual harassment and sexual violence in the service industry.

“We in the hospitality industry are enthusiastic about participating in the Say No More program,” said John Graf, past Chairman of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association and President of the Priory Hospitality Group. “We look forward to stepping up and publicly pledging that we are taking active steps to ensure that none of our employees, patrons or guests are subjected to harassment in any form.”

Executive Director of Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR), Alison Hall explains, “We applaud the Oakland Business Improvement District and its businesses and organizations for recognizing the importance of sexual violence prevention in our community. We need partners like the Oakland businesses as we work together on efforts like Project Last Call and creating a culture of change to end sexual violence.”

For more information or to become involved with Project Last Call email plc@paar.net.