Abstract
A positive workplace culture needs to be fostered and supported by the company, and it also needs workers to step up and be allies and active bystanders. A strong worker based support network provides a company with a more cohesive workforce, fewer incidents of inappropriate workplace behaviours (sexual harassment, gender based violence, bullying and racism) and therefore a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture.
An ally is a person who empowers, supports, advises, informs, or stands up for another person or group while an active bystander provides assistance in the presence of inappropriate workplace behaviours.
Allyship and bystandership are two things everyone can participate in at their workplace and they start with observing the workplace culture, listening to co-workers, reflecting on personal biases, value the contributions of others and being prepared to step in and support a coworker when inappropriate behaviours happen to them or in their presence.
This talk will discuss the benefits a company can realize by fostering workplace allies and active bystanders. It will also provide guidance on how to be a positive ally in the workplace and how to use safe active bystander strategies to support oneself and coworkers.