Local community partners emphasize the 5D Active Bystander Model for safe intervention when witnessing problematic or harmful situations:
- Distract: Interrupt the situation indirectly. This could involve spilling a drink "accidentally," asking the person causing harm an unrelated question, or creating a commotion to break the flow of potential harm.
- Delegate: Ask for help from a third party or someone in a position of authority, such as a store manager, bouncer, or bus driver. You can also ask others nearby to assist, as there is safety in numbers.
- Document: Record the incident with video, audio, or notes, but only if safe to do so. Always ask the person being harmed what they want done with the documentation before posting or sharing it, as a lack of consent can cause further harm.
- Direct: Directly respond to the harm by naming it (e.g., "That's not okay" or "Leave them alone") or showing disapproval with body language (frowning, crossing arms). Assess the situation for safety first, as direct intervention can sometimes escalate the situation.
- Delay: Check in with the person who experienced the harm after the incident. Offer support, acknowledge that it was not their fault, and help them find resources. This can prevent self-blame and reduce trauma.
The primary principle is to prioritize your own safety and the safety of others. There is a difference between feeling uncomfortable and feeling unsafe; trust your instincts.
