“Yellow” is a silent cry for help. “Yellow” means “Get me out!” That is not small talk. That is not drama. That is a person trying to get out of a situation that feels unsafe. When a woman has to use a coded plea like that, it tells me exactly how often people are forced to ask for help quietly because they are scared of what could happen if they are too direct.

This matters far beyond one moment. Women should not have to hope the right person overhears them and understands what they mean. Friends, staff, security, and bystanders need to know how to recognize a distress signal and how to respond quickly, safely, and seriously. A cry for help should never be brushed off because someone thinks it is a joke or “not their business.”

I am calling on public venues, especially bars, clubs, restaurants, hotels, and event spaces, to train staff on the Yellow distress signal and create a clear response protocol for helping someone leave safely. That means taking the person aside, checking on their safety, separating them from the situation if needed, and connecting them with security, transportation, or emergency help. We need visible safety policies that make it clear women will be believed and supported the first time they ask.

If you believe women deserve to be safe in public spaces, please sign. If you believe a coded call for help should be enough to trigger real support, please add your name. We need systems that protect women before a dangerous moment turns into something worse.