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Embracing Upstander Week: Taking Action for a More Inclusive Community

Embracing Upstander Week: Taking Action for a More Inclusive Community

At NIST, we believe in fostering a community that not only acknowledges injustice but actively works to challenge it. This year, as part of our commitment to global citizenship and equity, we are dedicating a week to recognizing and celebrating Upstander Week, an initiative aligned with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Upstander Week is about moving beyond awareness and inspiring action. It is about encouraging every member of our community to step up, speak out, and stand against discrimination in all its forms. Throughout the week, students across grade levels have been engaging in meaningful activities designed to deepen their understanding of what it means to be an Upstander—someone who not only recognizes injustice but takes proactive steps to address it.

At NIST, our vision is to be a preeminent international school that develops global citizens who flourish and make a positive impact on the world. Upstander Week reflects this vision by equipping students with the values, skills, and confidence needed to foster inclusivity, challenge discrimination, and create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

What Have Our Students and Community Been Doing?

From thought-provoking discussions to creative projects, students, faculty, parents, and community members have actively contributed to shaping this week’s activities. The teacher-led Ethnic Diversity and Antiracism Workgroup, with support from the GCD Students and the Elementary Service Group (Voices of Unity formerly known as The Rainbow Club), has developed age-appropriate resources that provide opportunities for meaningful engagement. These materials have helped students explore real-world examples of upstanding behaviour, analyze historical and contemporary movements against discrimination, and reflect on practical ways to apply these lessons in their everyday lives.

A powerful highlight of the week has been the ‘#NISTiesareupstanders’ campaign, where students, faculty, parents, and community members have shared personal stories and perspectives on the importance of standing up against discrimination - racism, bias, and inequality. These reflections serve as a powerful reminder that change begins with individuals who have the courage to take a stand.

Why This Matters

Creating an inclusive and just society requires more than passive support—it demands action. Upstander Week provides a platform for students to develop the skills and confidence to advocate for themselves and others. By nurturing empathy, courage, and resilience, we are empowering our students to be leaders of change within our school and beyond.

We invite the entire NIST community—students, parents, and faculty—to join us in this movement. Whether through conversations at home, support for community initiatives, or personal reflection, each of us has a role to play in fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, and discrimination has no place.

As Upstander Week comes to a close, we hope its impact extends far beyond these five days. Let this be the beginning of a continued commitment to standing up for what is right, today and every day.

 

Upstanders in NISTory

 

Upstanders in NISTory

 

Upstanders in NISTory

 

Upstanders in NISTory

 

Upstanders in NISTory