When to be an ethical bystander

Anytime you witness something that concerns you, you have the opportunity to be an ethical bystander. Being an ethical bystander is not about being a hero. Ethical bystanders notice something they think is dangerous, inappropriate or unjust, and decide they can do something about it. 

Remember that sexual misconduct can look different in different situations and can include behaviours such as unwanted physical touching, 'jokes' of a sexual nature, whistling and catcalling, or comments about someone's appearance. To learn more about sexual misconduct, click here.

We know that behaviours, words and actions that normalise, minimise or condone violence are often at the root of bigger issues such as sexual violence. Sexist jokes, comments about a person’s appearance, whistling and catcalling, and derogatory comments about someone’s ability based on gender or racial slurs, all need to be challenged in order for us to promote safety and respect.

Prevention requires all of us to challenge sexist, racist, homophobic, xenophobic and transphobic comments! A simple "That's not cool" in response to a sexist 'joke' can make a big impact.

Follow your instincts, if something does not feel right, and if it is safe to do so, then take action.