Independent Observer Program - Humboldt County
Our role as Independent Observer Program (IOP) volunteers is to be present at events such as protests, demonstrations, and rallies and to serve as witnesses of the actions and behavior of all parties present at the event. The attendance of trained observers provides unbiased witnesses should there be any form of escalation. The presence of neutral observers often has a calming effect on participants at an event.
The Independent Observer Program of Humboldt County is modeled after neutral observer programs at the University of Oregon, University of California at Berkeley, and the University of Colorado at Boulder. Observers are trained to make observations, not value judgments or interpretations. In the event a situation arises presenting potential harm to people or property, the observers document what they see.
The term “neutral” does not suggest that the observers are free from personal positions or beliefs about a given issue. It does, however, reflect the intention to offer an unbiased account of what is observed.
Humboldt IOP is always looking for new members; the more people who join this group the stronger and more effective we are. Membership only requires training; there is no other commitment required. Members are asked to attend events at times and places that accommodate their lifestyles. For example, if an event is occurring in Eureka and only three of our members can attend, each for different time periods, then that would be the nature of the IOP involvement for that event. Similarly, if an event in Richardson Grove occurs and we have only one member able to attend the event, then that would be the extend of the IOP involvement in that situation. This is why more people joining Humboldt IOP throughout the county make it a stronger and more effective program.
Trainings will be held when a minimum of 10 people contact the IOP indicating a desire to join. At that point in time, the Board will make arrangements to hire a trainer.
Please contact us if you:
The Independent Observer Program of Humboldt County is modeled after neutral observer programs at the University of Oregon, University of California at Berkeley, and the University of Colorado at Boulder. Observers are trained to make observations, not value judgments or interpretations. In the event a situation arises presenting potential harm to people or property, the observers document what they see.
The term “neutral” does not suggest that the observers are free from personal positions or beliefs about a given issue. It does, however, reflect the intention to offer an unbiased account of what is observed.
Humboldt IOP is always looking for new members; the more people who join this group the stronger and more effective we are. Membership only requires training; there is no other commitment required. Members are asked to attend events at times and places that accommodate their lifestyles. For example, if an event is occurring in Eureka and only three of our members can attend, each for different time periods, then that would be the nature of the IOP involvement for that event. Similarly, if an event in Richardson Grove occurs and we have only one member able to attend the event, then that would be the extend of the IOP involvement in that situation. This is why more people joining Humboldt IOP throughout the county make it a stronger and more effective program.
Trainings will be held when a minimum of 10 people contact the IOP indicating a desire to join. At that point in time, the Board will make arrangements to hire a trainer.
Please contact us if you:
- Have questions or comments.
- Wish to become a member of our program.
- Want Observers to be present at an event.
Contact information:
iophumboldt@gmail.com
(707) 440-9355
IOP members attend events throughout Humboldt County including the communities of Eureka, Fortuna, Arcata, McKinleyville, Ferndale, Fieldbrook, Rio Dell, Garberville, Redway, Blue Lake, and other unincorporated and rural areas.
