📚 What is an Upstander?
An upstander is someone who sees something wrong happening and does something to help. Instead of being a bystander, who watches without getting involved, an upstander takes action to support the person being harmed and to stop the harmful behavior. Being an upstander requires courage and empathy.
📜 A Brief History of Upstanderism
The concept of 'upstander' gained prominence in the context of studying the Holocaust. It highlighted individuals who risked their own safety to protect Jewish people and other persecuted groups from the Nazis. These brave individuals demonstrated extraordinary courage and moral conviction. The term has since broadened to include anyone who stands up against injustice and bullying in any situation.
🌟 Key Principles of Being an Upstander
- 👀 Recognize Injustice: Identify when someone is being treated unfairly or unkindly.
- 💪 Show Courage: It takes bravery to stand up to bullying or injustice, especially when others are silent.
- 🗣️ Speak Out: Use your voice to support the person being harmed and to tell the bully to stop.
- 🤝 Offer Support: Provide comfort and assistance to the person who is being targeted.
- 📢 Report Incidents: Tell a trusted adult, such as a teacher or parent, about the situation so they can help.
- 🌱 Promote Inclusion: Work to create a classroom and community where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
🌍 Real-World Examples of Upstander Actions
Here are some scenarios and how a 4th grader can act as an upstander:
| Scenario |
Upstander Action |
| A classmate is being excluded during recess. |
Invite the classmate to join your game or activity. |
| Someone is making fun of another student's clothes. |
Tell the person making fun that their comments are hurtful and unkind. Change the subject or walk away with the person being targeted. |
| You see someone being cyberbullied online. |
Take a screenshot and report the bullying to a trusted adult. Send a supportive message to the person being bullied. |
| A student is struggling with a school assignment and is afraid to ask for help. |
Offer to help the student with the assignment or encourage them to speak with the teacher. |
✅ Conclusion
Being an upstander is a powerful way to make a positive difference in your classroom, school, and community. By recognizing injustice, showing courage, and taking action, you can help create a more kind, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone. Remember, even small acts of kindness and support can have a big impact. You have the power to be an upstander!