“Luisa is Here” is a nationwide support program that has proven effective across Germany; it was originally developed by the Münster Women’s Crisis Hotline and is now implemented in numerous counties and cities throughout the country. 

Mayor Gert-Uwe Mende: “Because the Luisa concept is relatively well-known nationwide, many women have already heard of the campaign and can seek help and support when they find themselves in a specific situation.” 

Mayor Christiane Hinninger: “Especially during the summer months, outdoor swimming pools are among the most heavily frequented public places. This makes it all the more important that women can feel safe and supported there. The ‘Luisa is here’ campaign strengthens the sense of safety and sends a clear signal for attentiveness, respect, and moral courage. Violence against women and girls concerns us all.” 

The idea to implement the “Luisa is here” campaign at mattiaqua’s facilities arose directly from everyday life at the swimming pools. The managers of the pool facilities then developed a tailored concept in collaboration with the Municipal Women’s Office. 

In cooperation with Wildwasser Wiesbaden e.V., a specialized counseling center against sexual violence, a dedicated training video was created for all mattiaqua employees, and an in-person training session was conducted. The video provides confidence in handling potential incidents and raises awareness about sexual violence against women and the campaign’s goals. 

In Wiesbaden, the Municipal Women’s Office has been a licensee since 2022 and coordinates and finances a significant portion of the local implementation. Women who feel harassed, molested, or unsafe can discreetly approach staff at participating locations by asking for “Luisa” (“Is Luisa here?”) and receive immediate support. 

Bars, recreational facilities, nightclubs, kiosks, and even clubs can participate in the campaign. Training is mandatory prior to participation. Interested parties can contact the Municipal Women’s Office in Wiesbaden. All participating teams are sensitized in advance and prepared for potential situations.

Thomas Baum, Operations Manager at mattiaqua: “The campaign complements our existing safety and prevention plan, sends a visible signal, and guarantees support in situations where women and girls feel uncomfortable or harassed. With the training video, we ensure that the issue remains top of mind and that the campaign is firmly embedded in our daily work.” 

Saskia Veit-Prang, Municipal Women’s Representative: “We are convinced that the campaign can make a valuable contribution to respectful, equal, and safe coexistence in a recreational context, and we thank all mattiaqua employees for their commitment.”