It is time for men and women to act: constructing a female-friendly space in a male-dominated scene

ABSTRACT This study examines how Bandung metal men and women establish gender-sensitive environment, an increasingly crucial task shared with other scene members to create a safe space for women. The research investigates the manifestation of gender-equitable behaviour among male and female metal musicians, the factors that influence such behaviour, and the dynamics of gender relations within the metal scene in Bandung. The data collection for this research was conducted through interviews with fifteen members of the male and female scene and tracing the lyrics of ninety two metal songs from various subgenres. It shows that both women and men in the metal scene struggle to create a sense of safety for women through division of labour, decision-making, and equal opportunity. These conditions provide valuable insights into the struggle to raise awareness and promote gender-equitable practices in the metal community. This study focuses on how an individual’s participation in a metal scene affects social and cultural changes.