Don’t Be a Bystander: How to Respond When You Witness Sexual Harassment 

Sexual harassment is a persistent issue in workplaces across the globe. It creates a hostile work environment, impacts mental health, and can derail careers. While most people wouldn’t dream of engaging in sexual harassment themselves, many of us become bystanders, unsure of how to react when we witness it happening.

This silence empowers the harasser and reinforces the feeling of isolation for the victim. But you, the bystander, have the power to be the difference. Here’s how you can take an actionable and empowering role in stopping sexual harassment.

Understanding Sexual Harassment

Before diving into bystander intervention, let’s revisit the definition of sexual harassment. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) defines it as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This can include:

• Unwanted comments: Jokes, sexual innuendo, or remarks about a person’s appearance.
• Inappropriate touching: Grabbing, pinching, or any unwanted physical contact.
• Sexual propositions: Requests for sexual favors or advancement based on a sexual relationship.
• Display of offensive material: Showing or sending sexually explicit images or videos.

Sexual harassment can be subtle or overt, and it can be directed at anyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. The key factor is whether the conduct is unwelcome and creates a hostile work environment.

Why We Become Bystanders

There are many reasons why people hesitate to intervene when they witness sexual harassment. Some might fear:

• Retaliation: The harasser or even their colleagues might retaliate against them for speaking up.
• Making a scene: Feeling awkward or uncomfortable disrupting the situation.
• Unsureness about the situation: Misinterpreting the interaction or not wanting to get involved if they’re unsure.
• Lack of confidence: Not knowing the best way to intervene effectively.

These are all valid concerns. However, by understanding the power of bystander intervention and having a few practical strategies in your arsenal, you can overcome these hurdles.

The Power of Bystander Intervention

Bystander intervention is crucial in stopping sexual harassment. Here’s why:

• Empowers the victim: Knowing someone has their back can be a huge relief for the victim and may encourage them to report the incident.
• Deters the harasser: When their actions are challenged, it sends a message that their behavior is unacceptable.
• Creates a safer work environment: Shows everyone that sexual harassment will not be tolerated.

Studies have shown that bystander intervention can significantly reduce the prevalence of sexual harassment. By taking action, you’re not just helping the immediate situation, you’re contributing to a more respectful and inclusive workplace for everyone.

Actionable Strategies for Bystanders

Now, let’s get practical. Here are some actionable strategies you can use to intervene when you witness sexual harassment:

The Direct Approach:

• Distraction: Interrupt the conversation with a question or request for the involved parties.
• Direct confrontation: Calmly and firmly tell the harasser that their behavior is inappropriate.
• Solidarity with the victim: Offer support to the victim and let them know you’re there for them.

The Indirect Approach:

• Enlist support: Privately approach a trusted colleague or supervisor to report the incident.
• Use humor: Diffuse the situation with a lighthearted joke that redirects the conversation.
• Pretend a mistake: Fake a misunderstanding of the comment or behavior, forcing the harasser to clarify.

Always Prioritize Your Safety

While intervention is important, safety is paramount. If you feel unsafe intervening directly, focus on indirect methods or reporting the incident later. Additionally, if the harassment is violent or threatening, report it to HR or call the police immediately.

Supporting the Victim After Intervention

Whether you intervene directly or indirectly, offering support to the victim afterwards is crucial. Here’s how:

• Let them know you’re there: Check in and see if they’re okay.
• Respect their choices: Don’t pressure them to report the incident if they’re not ready.
• Offer resources: Provide information about HR policies, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or legal resources.

Empowering Yourself: Bystander Intervention Training

Many workplaces offer bystander intervention training programs. These programs equip employees with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to sexual harassment effectively. If your workplace doesn’t offer such training, here are some resources to empower yourself:

• The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): Provides bystander intervention training resources including online modules and facilitator guides: [National