Bystander action: the action taken by a person or persons not directly involved as a subject or perpetrator of violence against women, to identify, speak out about or seek to engage others in responding to specific incidences of violence and/or behaviours, attitudes, practices or policies that contribute to violence.
The above excerpt is taken from the Victorian Government's newly released 'Stepping In' Bystander Action Toolkit, 6/10/2014.
A definition of bystander action
Bystander action in our organisation is when an employee steps in when they see or hear about sexist language, sex discrimination or sexual harassment taking place at work.
Stepping in can take many forms: it can include speaking up against sexist or disparaging language or jokes, or identifying and changing workplace practices and policies that discriminate against women.
It can also include encouraging others to speak out or take action. It can be taken before, during or after an incident.
On a practical level any organisation or workplace can adopt the Bystander Action principles.
The White Ribbon Day website, accessed 6/10/2014, has examples of how we can make a difference.
What may seem like a joke to some increase levels of disrespect towards workmates.
See below a link to a workplace scenario and how the bystander has taken action.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8GDMTN1ZwE&feature=player_embedded