What It Means To Be An Upstander—and How To Teach It

Some people stay silent when they see something wrong. Others take action. The people who take action are called upstanders. They choose to speak up or step in when someone is being mistreated. Instead of ignoring the problem or walking away, they try to help. This might sound scary, but being an upstander doesn’t mean you have to be loud or confrontational. Sometimes, even small actions can make a big difference.

So, what does it truly mean to be an upstander? And how can we teach others—especially kids and teens—to stand up for what is right? This article explains the meaning, gives clear examples, and shares simple ways to teach upstanding behavior at any age.

Table of Contents

What Is an Upstander?

An upstander is someone who acts upon witnessing something wrong. Bullying, racism, unfair treatment, or any other nasty behavior could all fit here. Upstanders speak up, offer support, or report the matter to someone who might help rather than just watching. They do not remain silent when someone is mistreated.

Being an upstander does not always make one a superhero. You are not obliged to fight with anyone or be the noisiest person in the room. Even minor acts of kindness or support can count. An upstander might, for instance, sit with someone who is being bullied, tell a teacher, or offer a gentle comment to make them feel better.

Being an upstander also means considering others and acting morally, even under challenging circumstances. Though it requires bravery, it shows compassion and fortitude. And more people choosing to be upstanders results in a safer and more compassionate environment for all.

Why Is Being an Upstander Important?

Being an upstander helps stop harm and build stronger communities. People who speak out against unfair behavior or bullying show that those acts are unacceptable. This allows victims to be protected and causes others to think twice before acting negatively. Those who feel alone or afraid also find hope from upstanders.

Problems can get worse in silence. If no one speaks, the offender causing damage could believe it’s acceptable. But when someone intervenes, it can stop negative actions or inspire others to assist. Just offering the person suffering support will help them feel noticed and valued.

An upstander also models bravery and compassion. It generates among people respect and trust, and tells others, “I see you, and I care.” Less bullying in schools results from this. It can also result in fairer treatment at work. In communities, it can enable individuals to feel more welcome and safer.

How to Teach Upstanding Behavior to Children and Teens

Starting daily talks with children helps them to become upstanders. Discuss first what it means to observe something unfair or wrong. Show them basic scenarios they can grasp, such as someone excluded from a game or teased in a classroom. Find out their feelings and their potential ways of support.

Another tool is role-playing. Let youngsters act out scenarios and learn what to say or do. They might know, for example, to say, “That’s not nice,” or go get an adult if something significant is happening. You can also teach them it’s okay to quietly assist the person or tell someone who can if speaking up seems dangerous.

One further approach to instill good behavior is by setting an example. In your own life, show compassion, speak out for others, and oppose injustice. Young children pick up a lot from observing adults. When youngsters exhibit bravery or compassion, even in little ways, praise them. This raises their confidence and motivates them to keep acting morally.

Finally, share books, movies, or tales of actual upstanders. These can motivate young people and show that anyone can change things, no matter how little their contribution may seem.

Ways Adults Can Be Upstanders, Too

Being an upstander is not just for kids. Adults play a significant role, too. Adults often have more authority to bring about improvements in their communities, businesses, or classrooms. But sometimes, adults find it challenging to speak up. That’s why one should keep in mind that every voice counts and that little deeds have a significant impact.

Adults who want to be upstanders can call out nasty or unfair behavior. This could mean calling attention in meetings, dispelling preconceptions, or confronting nasty jokes. Should it not feel safe to speak at the moment, follow up later, or document the behavior of a responsible party.

Still, another approach is helping the people who are targets. Hear them, believe them, and find out how you might be of help. Sometimes, the difference is quite significant, just knowing someone you love. Whether it’s in the workplace, a social group, or a neighborhood event, it involves those who feel excluded.

Adults can also use their platforms, small or large, to raise awareness of compassion for others. Posting something, supporting a cause, or engaging in a community project will all help to foster equity and respect. The more people stand up, the stronger the message becomes.

Conclusion

Being an upstander is the ability to observe something wrong and decide to act. It’s about demonstrating compassion, bravery, and love even in trying circumstances. Teaching this behavior starts early, but it never ends. Children, teenagers, and adults are all capable of standing up and changing things. Every action counts—from speaking out to providing support to just refusing to engage in harm. Teaching and modeling excellent behavior helps us create a society that is fairer, safer, and more compassionate for all.