'I want to hold you close’ : an auto-ethnographical discussion of sexual harassment in and around larp in Flanders

In this paper, I will look at the larp scene in Flanders, Belgium, with particular reference to sexual interactions and possible harassment both in-game and off-game. I look at these through an auto-ethnographic lens and talk about my own experiences, but also through experiences and articles by international larpers. I then go on to zoom in on Flanders and our larp scene, as a base for the rest of the discussion. I will consider how a player might change their behaviour as a result of experiencing certain situations, but also how our evolving landscape is challenging whose responsibility it is to change. Throughout the years I have encountered many experiences in larping. I will be discussing the positive sides – good mechanics, good rules – but also the negative – grooming. While larp might be a nerdy hobby, it also attracts certain people - ones that we should always look out for. But other than asking to look out for each other, I also want to emphasize the unique qualities and efforts of larp.