On Being An Upstander
A lot has been written and discussed about the problems and challenges that many of you face as you try to navigate a difficult, complex world.
But in my view, there hasn’t been nearly enough focus on those of you who—despite your challenges—have taken a stand to make the world a better place by courageously combating hate, bigotry, and bullying, and showing kindness and compassion toward others.
I’m Dr. Janice Cohn, a psychotherapist and book author, who writes about “Upstanders” of all ages, people who have shown exceptional moral courage. A number of young Upstanders were honored at our local public library in Montclair, New Jersey, this past December, in a moving celebration called “The Courage to Care.” The event’s title acknowledged that it’s not always easy to take a stand on behalf of what’s right or to extend a hand of kindness and compassion toward others. Often, it’s easier to do nothing. But many young people in my town (as I’m sure is true in your town) decided to take action. For example:
Twelfth grader Zoe Leitner started a non-profit, Chocolate for Charity, that raised thousands of dollars for a local woman’s shelter, a bereavement camp, Holocaust education, and more.
Seventh grader Wells went out of his way to make a new student to our country feel welcomed by bringing him into his friend group and inviting him in their daily outings.
When eleventh grader Anna learned that SNAP benefits for families would be suspended, she organized a food drive at her school, made posters to publicize it, and delivered the collected food to a local food pantry.
Now think about what you might do, or what other young people could do. How might you stand up for others too? And how can you help to spread the word about the importance of Upstanders?
Please take a look at my article, Imagine… on the Skipping Stones website and see if that gives you any ideas.
Dr. Janice Cohn can be reached at janice@drjanicecohn.com Dr. Cohn has authored several books, including The Christmas Menorahs: How A Town Fought Hate (this 30th Anniversary edition was a winner of the 2025 Skipping Stones Book Awards. You can read a review of the book here).