Empowered Bystander/Upstander The aim of this section is to present to the participants the concept of empowered bystander, also known as upstander. Usually the focus of the module is on definitions followed by role playing later in the training.
Definition: Empowered Bystander/Upstander An Empowered Bystander or Upstander is someone who helps create a safer community by utilizing a wide range of behaviors, including standing up and speaking out, when they witness situations that could potentially threaten the health and safety of others. Regardless of the term you prefer, Empowered Bystanders and Upstanders actively promote a culture of safety. Actions to be an Empowered Bystander/Upstander ●
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Notice behavior that constitutes oppressive behavior; racist.sexist, ableist, fatphobic, homo- and transphobic remarks as well as verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual violence and abuse. Name it when you see it. Think critically about mainstream messages around race, class, bodies, sexuality, abilities, gender, sex, and violence, and challenge them. Create a safe environment inclusive of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Respect peoples' physical space, even in casual situations. Define your own identity, and do not let stereotypes shape your actions. Hold perpetrators accountable for sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence rather than asking victims to prove they were assaulted. Join a student or community group working to end violence.
Recognizing Microaggression Microaggression refers to the commonplace prejudice experienced if your race, gender, ethnicity, religion, economic class, nationality, language, ability level, or body type is marginalized. Whether microaggression is intentional or not, it is experienced as a put down, as a belittling experience that marginalizes and undermines. Even though it can be difficult to pinpoint microaggression, it is important to identify it, and recognize that it is unacceptable. Microaggression is powerful and insidious, and can be as harmful as overt aggression. Speak Up if you Notice Someone ● ● ● ● ● ●
Perpetuate myths about sexual violence Use objectifying or degrading language Blame the victim Say someone is being too sensitive to the microaggression Objectify another's body Glamorize violence in general as well as specifically sexual violence, stalking, sexual assault, sexual harassment and street harassment