2024 ANNUAL SECURITY REPORT 36 Bystander Intervention Tips Bystanders can play a critical role in the prevention of sexual and relationship violence. They are “individuals who observe violence or witness the conditions that perpetuate violence. They are not directly involved but have the choice to intervene, speak up, or do something about it.” Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Bystander intervention includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and acting to intervene. Kutztown University promotes a culture of community accountability, supporting an environment where individuals take action to prevent and/or respond to situations that can lead to dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. It is an institutional belief that bystanders can contribute to preventing such heinous crimes by doing the following: • If you see someone who looks to be in danger, call (610) 683-4001 if you are on campus or 911 if you are off campus. • Be active in supporting a safe and respectful community. If you see others engaging in disrespectful or inappropriate actions, speak up and get involved, or contact someone to assist. If you hear someone talking about plans to take sexual advantage of another person, speak up. Listen for rape jokes and sexist language. You don’t have to laugh or participate. • If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or sense that something is wrong, don’t ignore it; you can help by getting • involved. Check in and ask, “Hey, do you know this person?” Or, “Are you OK?” Or, “Can I call a friend to walk you home?” • When you go out, consider going out as part of a group. People tend to step in and intervene in situations when they have friends who will back them up. • It can feel awkward to step in and say something if you notice harmful behavior, but often all it takes is a brief introduction. Let the potential perpetrator know that their actions are noticeable with a simple, “Hey, aren’t you in my Psychology class?” • If you’re a bystander and see someone behaving in a way that seems suspicious, be direct and step in and do something about it, such as distracting their attention away from a potential victim. If you don’t feel comfortable or safe confronting them, call 911. • Confront people who attempt to seclude, hit on, try to make out with, fondle or have sex with people who are incapacitated. • Believe someone who discloses sexual assault, abusive behavior, or experience with stalking. • Refer people to on or off campus resources listed in this document for support in health, counseling, or with legal assistance • You can intervene even after an assault. Learn what options sexual assault survivors have available to them on this campus and be supportive of their choices. • .
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzcxOTE=