Bystander Intervention Training for the Legal Workplace

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burke

Silence is complicity. An organization cannot fulfill its objectives of diversity, inclusion, and equity if its individual members are silent when bias and discrimination rear their ugly heads. But let's be honest. Being a silent bystander is easier and more comfortable than being a vocal upstander. This is especially true in a law firm environment, where respect for authority is highly valued, and civility and decorum are viewed as the cornerstones of professionalism. Additionally, the fear of retaliation looms large as individuals weigh their desire for social change against their need for job security. 

In this program, attorneys will learn how to spot situations in which others are victims of bias and discrimination, as well as specific steps to de-escalate the situation, protect and affirm the victim, and report the perpetrator.

This program will benefit attorneys in any legal workplace. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify scenarios in which bystanders should intervene in an incident of bias or discriminations

2. Discuss the unique dynamics at legal workplaces which can make bystanders fear to speak up

3. Review specific techniques to interrupt bias and discrimination in the legal workplace

4. Turn bystanders into upstanders