Skip to main content

Bystander Intervention

What is Bystander Intervention?

Bystander intervention is a way for the whole community to ensure the safety of all its members. This means we can all make a difference by speaking out when we hear disrespectful jokes or comments as well as when we witness disrespectful or harmful actions. Bystander intervention supports our shared values of respect and caring.

How can I get involved?

There are a lot of ways to be involved. You can:

  • Host or attend a Bringing in the Bystander workshop where participants will learn the skills to identify and safely intervene. The workshops are facilitated by a variety of students and staff from across campus, contact the Gender Equity Center to learn more.
  • “Step in and speak up” when you hear or see disrespectful or unsafe interactions. Intervening can be as simple as saying, “That’s not funny,” or as urgent as dialing 911.
  • Talk to your friends about being an active bystander. Sexual assault occurs at the rate of approximately 350 times per year for a campus with 10,000 female students. Chances are you know someone who has been impacted and could use support. By being an active bystander you also have the opportunity to change that statistic.