DISTRACT

Distraction is a subtle and creative way to intervene, with the aim being to derail the incident by interrupting or distracting from it. Do not mention the harassment or acknowledge the harasser, instead acting like nothing is happening to de-escalate the situation. This could be as simple as asking for directions, physically getting in between harasser and harassed, or dropping something to make a commotion.

DELEGATE

Delegation is asking for assistance from somebody else to assist the victim. This can mean working with other bystanders to end the situation. Depending on the location, authority figures - manager, store owners, security, bus driver, ect. - can be asked to intervene. If the situation is more serious, consider calling 311 (for non-emergencies) or 911.

DOCUMENT

Documenting harassment situations can be very important, especially in prosecuting harassers after the fact. However, one should be considerate of the victim and their own safety and desires. If no one is helping, you should perform one of the other 4 Ds to help the victim. If someone is already helping, documenting can be very helpful. When doing so, make sure to note important details: time, date, location. Once the situation is over, make sure to ask the victim what should be done with the footage. Never post or use the footage without permission, for doing so can cause further harassment or embarrassment to the victim.

DELAY

Many harassment situations are very quick, meaning you cannot always directly intervene. In these instances, try to support victims by showing support and condolences. Ask if they are OK, or if they want someone to accompany them to their destination. Now would also be a time to share resources with them, helping them report the incident.

DIRECT

When witnessing a situation, you may want to speak up. However, of the 5 Ds, this one is the most risky, and could escalate the situation further or draw harassment towards yourself. Before doing this, make certain that you and the victim are physically safe, that the situation will not escalate, and that the victim wants someone to intervene. Simple phrases like “leave them alone” or “that’s inappropriate” are good places to start.

For more information and ways to properly intervene, check out Hollaback's Bystander Intervention Resources.

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The 5 D's of Bystander Intervention