An upstander is someone who helps others. When they see something that isn't right, they say something, they do something, and if they're not sure what to do they will find someone who can better assist with the situation. Upstanders take action, their actions create awareness and change.
A bystander is someone who sees when something isn't right but says nothing, they ignore it, they bury their head in the sand, or worse they may even become complicit by joining in somehow. Bystanders allow unacceptable behaviours to continue.
The concept of 'being an upstander' is being implemented in some schools and teaches students how to help in situations of bullying, and it has got me thinking! There are many areas in life where any adult could adopt this practise and make a difference.
We each have our own unique thoughts, beliefs and life experiences, and as such there are many different things that may trigger an individual into acting upon something that they see as not right. For one, it may be a human rights issue, for another, animal welfare, it could be an unjust political agenda, advocating for the environment, or simply calling someone out on their behaviour.
When having a look into this I discovered that it's only around 20% of the time that people will stand up and intervene and I wondered what stops people from being 'upstanders'?
Perhaps the potential backlash? Such as being thought of in a negative way, or potentially damaging a relationship. It could be fear of retribution like a physical or verbal attack. Perhaps lacking the skills or confidence to deal with what is happening. Maybe not having enough information or feeling unsure about the differing values humans can have around acceptable treatment and behaviour. (In such situations it is certainly okay to ask other people how they perceive the situation to get a different perspective, or check in with the 'victim' to see if they are okay).
Being an upstander helps to protect the vulnerable in our community, and those without a voice. It is normal to feel upset or angry as part of being an upstander. That emotion can provide us with a strong urge to make things right. The more people who are willing to use this impetus to take action, the more inappropriate situations that could be addressed, improved, and rectified.
What do you think? Is it important to take positive action when you see a situation that may be harmful to another living creature, even at the risk of your own comfort or reputation? Me? I'm off to have a conversation about a dog.
Emma x
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