Bystander Intervention
Nationwide there is a movement to change the way we think about each other. In particular, the ways we think about relationships, power, control and respect.
At Husson we are joining the effort and continuing to work towards improving the campus’s sense of warmth, vitality, acceptance, and support. There are many parts to this effort. This page is dedicated to providing you with information about Bystander Intervention Training and how you can take more actions to support those around you and create a safe community.
What is Bystander Intervention?
There are a few ways to define bystander intervention. Basically, bystander intervention means being active in creating a community that is safe, accepting, supportive, and diverse. It is about recognizing times when others need help and being willing to act on their behalf. There are times when we see or hear something that just doesn't seem right, yet we don't know whether we should do something or not. Bystander intervention training empowers us to be more active when help is needed.
You might also think of it as “treating others as you would want to be treated,” and encouraging and educating others to do the same.
We often use bystander intervention training as a way to open up conversations about the rise of sexual assaults, rape, and domestic violence on campus’ and as a way to increase our understanding about consent, power and control in relationships. Other topics included in bystander intervention training include alcohol and drug dependence/overdose, mental illness, civility, peer support and teambuilding.
Why do we need it?
The biggest reason for this training is to reduce the prevalence of sexual violence on campus and make campuses more safe and accepting of all students.
The Bystander Intervention Training:
is for students as well as faculty, staff, and administration
helps students support each other and keep each other accountable
helps peers educate peers about behaviors that are unsafe, disrespectful, assaultive, offensive, and violate boundaries.
fosters active participation towards creating a better community atmosphere for all.
involves active participation in engaging in difficult situations and breaking through our own biases and fears.
is about big actions and small actions; all are valuable and necessary.
is related just as much to preventing sexual violence as it is for preventing hate speech, supporting growth, encouraging diversity and engaging in the creation of a better community.
Examples
Not sure what you can do? Here are some examples.
Here is an example of how small actions can create big differences.
Helpful Links
Circle of 6 App - With Circle of 6, you can connect with your friends to stay close, stay safe and prevent violence before it happens. The Circle of 6 app for iPhone and Android makes .it quick and easy to reach the 6 friends you choose.