Friar Family Bystander Intervention

Bystander Intervention is the interruption of behavior or speech by someone who is present for or a bystander to that behavior or speech. More simply, it is spontaneously helping in a situation when help is needed.

At Providence College, we believe that bystander intervention trainings go beyond providing effective intervention techniques. We believe that through discussion based conversations, relationships are formed and the power of empathetically connecting with others in our community will effectively help shape a more inclusive and safe environment. Through training, focus groups, and peer-led discussions, the Friar Family Step UP! Bystander Intervention program empowers and mobilizes participants to not only to intervene, but to critically contemplate their role in our community and society.

Step UP! Bystander Intervention training teaches members of the Providence College community strategies to effectively intervene in concerning or emergency situations in which no one else has yet taken action to help. In a higher education setting, Bystander Intervention techniques are most often applied to circumstances of alcohol misuse, sexual assault, bias incidents, hazing and mental health challenges. Bystander intervention is not just about aiding in challenging moments, but also about challenging social constructs and promoting community. Active bystanders pay attention, speak up, take initiative, and defy conformity.

Friar Family Step UP! is about creating an inclusive campus community of respect, connection, compassion and active engagement. The ability to genuinely connect with and feel empathy for others is imperative to every society, and to our community. When we collectively practice active caring for one another, we ensure the creation of a safe and supportive living and learning environment for everyone.

The Friar Family is a special network to be a part of. Make the most of your time in Friartown by asking for help when you need it, helping those in need, using available support resources and encouraging your peers to do the same!

The beauty of a small, close-knit community is the power of knowing Friars worldwide will always recognize and support a fellow Friar.

Active Caring in Friartown means that we:

• Listen up! Friars learn to cultivate awareness about what is going on inside and around us.
• Show up! Get involved and get connected with other members in the Friar Family. Friars live proudly, courageously and safely.
• Stand up! Step forward and take action on behave of ourselves, our peers, and our community.
• Follow up! Active caring doesn’t end with intervention. Actively caring Friars know about the many resources available and share that information with others.

“In the end we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.