Active Bystanders
Be a role model.
Be an Active Bystander!
Active bystanders are individuals whose behaviors intervene in ways that impact the outcome positively. Abuse of Any One Harms Everyone and we can all step in to help. It is our collective responsibility as concerned members of our community to intervene safely to prevent domestic or sexual violence from occurring. A bystander can be anyone including family members, friends, etc.
Active Bystanders
- Interrupt demeaning language, name calling, and sexist jokes
- Model healthy communication
- Be a positive role model to youth and teens
- Model respectful relationships
Model healthy relationships.
Before Taking Action
- Be aware that there is a problem
- Does the person need help?
- Do you see yourself as part of the solution?
- What are my options?
- Do I need to involve anyone else for help?
- When do I need to act?
Confront harmful behavior.
Resources:
- Bystander Strategies
- Stop Abuse at Virginia Tech – Sample Bystander Responses
- Engaging Bystanders in Sexual Violence Prevention
- Ten Things Men Can Do English Español
- A Call To Men
- Coaching Boys Into Men
- See It and Stop It
- Check Yourself posters
- Bystanders No More: Teaching Kids to Respond to Violent Crime
Choose respect over power.
Policy:
Consider writing policies for your own school, workplace, or place of worship. This sample Bystander Policy is from University of New Hampshire courtesy of Bringing in the Bystander (Plante, Banyard, Moynihan, Eckstein) © August 2008.
- Everyone has a role to play in the intervention and prevention of sexual violence.
- Everyone is expected not to harass or sexually assault anyone.
- Everyone is expected to be an active bystander, intervening before, during, or after any form of sexual violence.
- Everyone is expected to assist and support survivors of sexual violence.
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