Stand Up

Taking small positive actions to improve your relationship with yourself and others can all make a big difference.

Relationship abuse, domestic and sexual abuse and violence against women and girls are serious issues in our society. These issues start with words and attitudes. The good news is we can change this. We can all do something to take a stand and draw a line at abuse. However, it’s not always easy to be the one to challenge wrongdoing, especially if it’s among your friends. Taking action is often easier said than done. We might feel awkward and uncomfortable. We may not want to be the one who sticks out in a crowd. Maybe we are afraid or simply don’t want to get involved. Sometimes we might think it’s easier to just wait and see if someone else says or does something.

But remember, by taking a stand, you are making a difference. Actions don’t need to be huge, there are small things we can all do to make the change. When we start to challenge injustice and inequality, it spreads and can be infectious. Sometimes, when we make the change others will follow!

Check out these scenarios and consider what, if anything, can be done.

Abusive Relationship

Workplace Abuse

Verbal Sexual Abuse

Control & Consent

Homophobia

Sexism & Misogyny

Domestic Violence

Mental Health

Physical Assault

Bullying Behaviour

Our top tips for taking a stand

Here are some things we can all do to create a safer society for everyone

Don’t be a part of it. Don’t engage in joke telling, “banter” or conversations that are misogynistic, sexist, or offensive in any way, even if you feel pressured to do so, your silence says so much!
Actively disapprove. Show you don’t approve with your facial expressions, body language and response.
Diffuse the situation. Try changing the subject to steer things away from conversations that are harmful and misogynistic.
Probe and question. Ask the person making these comments questions like, why do you say that? Do you really believe that? This is often enough to embarrass them, stop the conversation and make them think about their actions.
Call it out and take a stand. Intervene in a way that is safe to stop a potentially abusive situation escalating.
Challenge safely. Have a quiet word with the person. Research shows that we are more likely to listen to our peers. Explain why the behaviour is not cool.
Disassociate. If the person is not willing to change, distance yourself, are they really the types of friends you want in your life?
Be a role model. You can be the change. By taking these steps you are a role model to others. While it can be difficult, others will respect you for it.

Remember! It is important to take care when calling out offensive behaviour to keep yourself and others safe. If you feel you might be putting yourself in danger by calling out behaviour, don’t do it! There are other ways you can show you don’t support this type of behaviour.