Community Support

Be an Ally

Learn how to support survivors and transform harmful behaviors in your community

What Real Allies Do

✓ DO This
  • Believe survivors when they share their story
  • Listen without judgment or questions
  • Ask 'How can I support you?' not 'Why didn't you...'
  • Share resources and reporting options
  • Report harmful content when you see it
  • Challenge harmful jokes and behavior in your circles
  • Educate yourself about digital violence
  • Center the survivor's choices and autonomy
✗ DON'T Do This
  • Ask 'What were you wearing?' or 'Why were you online?'
  • Blame the survivor for what happened
  • Share their story without permission
  • Pressure them to report or take action
  • Make jokes about their experience
  • Contact the harasser to 'sort it out'
  • Minimize their experience ('It's not that bad')
  • Ask intrusive details about what happened

Transforming Masculinities

Men and boys have a crucial role in ending digital violence. Healthy masculinity means:

Respecting women's boundaries and consent online

Speaking up against sexist harassment and memes

Taking responsibility for your own behavior

Showing vulnerability and emotional intelligence

Celebrating women's voices and contributions

Never sharing intimate content without permission

Supporting survivors without making it about yourself

Challenging other men who engage in harmful behavior

How to Be Supportive

Listen Actively

Give survivors your full attention. Don't interrupt with your own stories or advice.

Believe & Validate

Say 'I believe you' and 'This wasn't your fault.' That's often all they need to hear.

Respect Autonomy

Let them decide what to do next. Avoid pressuring them toward any action.

Keep Confidence

Don't share their story. Let them control who knows and what details are shared.

Provide Resources

Share information about reporting options, support services, and counseling.

Check In Regularly

Recovery takes time. Continue showing support and checking on their wellbeing.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Share these resources with your community and start conversations about digital safety