When witnessing a wrong doing, people have the ability to disrupt it. Heroes are often praised for their efficient actions and positive effects in a fictional world but in real life heroes are mentioned but not enough to promote standing up for what's right. In the article Room For Debate, there was a report of a bystander and their negative effect on not at least speaking up. Many choose not to intervene because it requires confidence or they don't take it personally enough. A bystander's decision to not take a form of action allows the victim and others to be harmed.
There are several ways bystanders can help, in any situation, instead of walking by, recording, or watching allowing these upsetting acts to continue. Onlookers have the ability to vocally assist by asking to stop or for explanation as to why this is happening. Another way they can vocally approach a situation is by adding power to the victim's plea to stop. They could even physically restrain the victim from the offender, if possible. Bystanders can help medically through CPR, hemlock maneuver, or applying pressure on a blood wound. This being said, if civilians are in potential danger, they have the option to call and authority figure for help.
During these times especially, social media has genuinely encouraged people to not be silent about injustices and to take action in various way like through petitions. Although we are not direct bystanders, we should not evade our virtuous responsibility to help others. Signing petitions may be tedious but are effective. Informing other s helps direct their moral compass in doing what's right and builds their confidence to advocate for the right reasons. Even taking time out of your day to educate yourself and be aware helps long-term. In taking some form of these actions, even behind a screen, we intervene and demonstrate change.
I totally agree with you about how bystanders should take more action instead of just letting the fight happen. Bystanders are guilty when they don't intervene because they're simply letting an innocent person get beaten down, which is unacceptable. Nowadays, people just want to record fights and post it on their social media. Honestly, if such students continue with that behavior, it's self-degrading towards the victim and gives our school/community a horrible reputation. Even if I was placed as the victim, I'd probably be praying for someone to help me out. Bystanders should learn how to speak up, and especially through social media by supporting the BLM movement and educating ourselves.
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