On 20 February, Merakai Brewing CO., founded by Emma O’Neill-Parsons and Olly Parsons, hosted members of their community at their craft brewery to brew a Brave Noise Beer.
After issuing their code of conduct earlier this year as a call to arms to the wider UK brewing industry, in efforts to create a safer industry and community, Merakai Brewing CO. committed to brewing a Brave Noise Beer with notable female figures in the craft beer industry.
Brave Noise is the result of the revelations uncovered by US brewer, Brienne Allen (@ratmagnet), who shared thousands of stories of harassment, abuse and discrimination worldwide within the craft beer industry on Instagram after asking one question: ‘Have you ever experienced sexism in the beer industry?’
Olly Parsons, co-founder of the Sussex-based brewery said: “I read Brienne’s (social) posts and watched her stories, and I felt overwhelmed with sadness that this was happening within our beloved industry and community. Everyday I dreaded seeing more and more stories of abuse. As a man, a brewer and a brewery owner I felt it was my responsibility to do what I could to raise awareness of these issues and be a supportive ally.”
According to recent figures, in 2020 there were 3,018 registered UK breweries – uptake of Brave Noise in the UK has been underwhelming, with only nine UK breweries including Merakai Brewing CO. taking part in Brave Noise collaborations.
Emma O’Neill-Parsons, co-founder Merakai Brewing CO. said: “Even though we are a new brewery, it’s important to us that we use our platform and whatever influence we have to be a driving force within the UK craft beer industry for the Brave Noise initiative.
“Generating awareness and taking action to create a positive change within the Industry is the goal. We encourage as many UK breweries as possible to take part in the global collaboration.”
A YouGov survey has found that over three-quarters of UK adults think improved safety procedures in bars, pubs and nightclubs is necessary, following recent publicity around the safety of women and girls.
“I stand with those within our community who have experienced harassment. This cannot continue, and we are going to do everything we can to make workplaces and craft beer venues safe for everyone,” Emma said.
Merakai Brewing CO’s Brave Noise will be launched at various taprooms and craft bottle shops nationwide from 18 March 2022.
Merakai Brewing CO. are working with their community to conduct further fundraising and activities to educate and generate awareness of Brave Noise for the duration of March.
Proceeds from the sale of Brave Noise will go towards creating Wellness Officers, trained individuals who will be present at craft beer events and festivals to help, support and act as a witness for attendees.
Emma said: “One of our key objectives with Brave Noise is to make spaces safe for everyone to enjoy craft beer, the Wellness Officer (WO) initiative established by The Coven aims to do that.”
The Coven celebrates women-brewed and owned beer. Their aim is to make beer spaces safe and accessible to all.
Pip, founder, at The Coven, Wellness Officer initiative said: “We are thrilled that Merakai Brewing CO. and members of their community have chosen to support our initiative. We really just want everyone to be safe and have good vibes whilst drinking great beer.”
For more news and information about the Brave Noise release follow @merakai_brewing on Instagram
ENDS
Press release from Merakai Brewing
Contact: harrison.emmie@gmail.com