Bystander Intervention Information
What If I Am a Bystander and See Something Is Wrong?
A bystander is someone who is an observer of an incident. If anyone suspects a friend, acquaintance, or stranger may be in a high-risk situation of becoming a victim, is being victimized, or has been a victim of any form of sexual and related misconduct, it is important to decide as a bystander whether there is a safe and reasonable way to intervene effectively, and to act in a way to assist a person whether it is before, during, or after an incident takes place. Bystanders are also encouraged to contact the appropriate person listed in the Sexual and Related Misconduct Policy and Procedures section of the Student Handbook, or the Fordham University Department of Public Safety at 718-817-2222; if someone is in immediate danger, please immediately notify the Department of Public Safety at 718-817-2222. There is no legal obligation for a bystander to act or intervene.
The following are suggestions for safe and positive bystander actions:
Do’s
- Take steps to stop a friend who chooses to use violence.
- Ask a friend, acquaintance, or stranger who is attempting to take sexual advantage of another to stop and leave the location.
- Take the initiative to help friends who aren’t thinking clearly avoid becoming targets of violence.
- Prevent an intoxicated person from going to a private location with another person, even an acquaintance or friend.
- Recognize dating or domestic partners who cause fear or physical pain to their partner, and voice your concerns where appropriate (e.g., by referring the person to the counseling center).
- Avoid situations where intoxicated people (complainants, respondents, or both) may be unable to consent.
- Remind your friends that consent is the difference between sex and sexual assault
- Contact the Department of Public Safety at 718-817-2222, the Title IX office, the dean of students, or another person of authority who can assist.
Don’ts
- Don’t leave a friend or acquaintance alone at a party or bar.
- Don’t leave a friend or acquaintance with people neither of you know.
- Don't escalate the situation.
- Don't remain silent.
- Don't stand by.
Am I Required to Intervene and Act as a Bystander?
No, there is no legal obligation in New York state for a bystander of a potentially violent situation or crime to intervene or act. Remember, you are most effective as an active bystander by intervening when it is safe to do so, or contacting Public Safety or law enforcement if intervening would be unsafe.
Help Create a Safer Campus Environment.
Fordham University educates students in the Jesuit tradition, which includes promoting deep respect for individuals and others, and creating a community of responsible citizens. Bystanders are encouraged to act if there are safe and reasonable ways to intervene or discourage people from being uncivil toward each other in an effort to foster a safer environment for everyone. Campus security authorities are required to act in certain circumstances and must report all incidents immediately.
How to Support A Survivor of Sexual Assault
If you know someone who has been assaulted, it’s important to offer your own support in addition to them receiving support from University resources. Always remember to TALK:
- Thank them for telling you
- Ask how you can help them
- Listen without judgment
- Keep supporting them
Don’t minimize their experience or pretend like nothing happened, but also make sure to not over-exaggerate their experience; they are in a delicate space, and it’s important to find the balance that’s right for them. Practice empathy, as their behavior may change after an assault, so do your best to reach out regularly, spend time with them as you normally would, and check-in as needed. Should they want to talk about it more with you, make sure to not get upset if they waited to divulge information to you or challenge their experience; be present, practice active listening, and reassure them you are there for them.
Updated: 10.26