How to be an Upstander/ Rescuer/Resister

Grade 9

How to be an upstander/rescuer/resister

Part I: Personal Reflections - students can write their reflections in a journal and share with their class.

  • Identify a time when you went out of your way to help somebody—a friend, a family member, a neighbor, or a complete stranger. What were the consequences of your actions for you and for others?

  • Identify a situation when you knew something was wrong or unfair, but you did not intervene to improve the situation. What were the consequences of your actions for you and for others?


Part II: Civic Engagement - Confronting injustice in Your Community

  • Students will access these websites: Not In Our Town and Facing History: Reflecting on Racial Violence for activities and suggestions to organize courageous conversations and action to confront hate and injustice in their school and local community.

  • Students can access films to begin community discussions, activities to encourage students, parents and other community members to address local issues and use social media to educate and advocate for a local community issue that addresses injustice.

      • Some examples of action include:

        • Organize a photo exhibit highlighting the importance of upstanding behavior in the school and community;

        • Create a website to educate others;

        • Write a blog;

        • Make a video for local TV stations or website;

        • Write a play, or create a piece of art or write a poem;

        • Organize a panel of community members to discuss justice issues in the community.