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Bystander intervention can play a major role in keeping kids safe.
A bystander is a person who witnesses a boundary violation or sees a situation in which a child is vulnerable. An active bystander goes a step further by taking proactive action to restore safety when a child needs help. It is important to remember that we do not have to compromise our own safety to be an active bystander. Sometimes just calling 911 can save a life. |
When we witness something that doesn't feel right, we may ignore it because we are not sure if we should intervene or not or how to do it. We understand that it takes courage to act so we are sharing some simple tips we can all learn so that we can do or say something when a child is in danger.
It takes courage to step up and step in. By getting help or saying something, you are part of the solution; watching and doing nothing makes you part of the problem.
So, what can you do if you witness abuse? RAINN* gives us these suggestions:
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If you know the person that is behaving improperly, it is very important to say something, even if it is an uncomfortable conversation. Don’t allow the person to minimize the situation, and get support from others. We understand that it is very difficult to decide to take action, but if a choice lines up so that it supports truth, health, happiness, wisdom and love, it’s the right choice.