7 Common Myths You Might Believe About Allyship While most people consider themselves to be good people, many struggle to effectively show up as allies. Allyship is about consistent, intentional actions over time rather than one-and-done, check-the-box activities.
By Julie Kratz Edited by Kara McIntyre
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In a world that continues to grapple with social injustice and systemic inequality, allyship has emerged as a critical strategy for advancing diversity, equity and inclusion. While many individuals genuinely believe they are good people, the challenge lies in effectively demonstrating allyship in their actions. True allyship goes beyond performative gestures or one-time efforts; it requires consistent, intentional actions over time. Allyship is about sustained change long term.
Allyship, at its core, involves supporting marginalized individuals or communities by using one's privilege to dismantle oppressive systems. Allies actively work to amplify marginalized voices, challenge biased norms and advocate for equity and justice. It is important to recognize that allyship is not a self-appointed label, but rather a status earned through continuous learning, self-reflection and ongoing action.
In an era of social media activism and viral challenges, it is easy to fall into the trap of engaging in check-the-box activities. These are actions taken solely for the purpose of being seen as an ally or to temporarily ease one's guilt, without a genuine commitment to effecting real change. Posting a hashtag, attending a single protest or making a donation can certainly be valuable, but they alone do not define allyship. True allyship necessitates a long-term investment of time, energy and resources.
Effective allyship involves taking meaningful action beyond performative gestures. Engage in direct support of marginalized individuals and communities. This can include volunteering, mentoring or financially supporting relevant organizations. Stand up against discrimination and biases, even in uncomfortable situations. Being an ally means using your voice and privilege to effect change, both on an individual and systemic level.
Related: Are You a Performative Ally? Here Are the Signs.
Myth 1: Allyship is a one-time act
Allyship is an ongoing commitment to actively support and advocate for marginalized individuals or groups. It requires consistent effort, education and self-reflection.
Myth 2: Allies should speak for marginalized groups
True allyship involves listening to and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, rather than speaking on their behalf. Allies should create space for marginalized individuals to share their own experiences and perspectives. Allyship is about speaking up with marginalized groups, not for marginalized groups.
Myth 3: Allies are always perfect and never make mistakes
Allies are human and can make mistakes. It's important to acknowledge and learn from those mistakes, take responsibility and make efforts to do better. Allyship is a continuous learning process. It is about progress over perfection.
Myth 4: Allyship is solely about individual actions
While individual actions are important, allyship also involves addressing systemic issues and working towards creating inclusive and equitable environments. This may involve advocating for policy changes, challenging discriminatory practices and supporting organizations that promote diversity and inclusion. Individual actions are important, but systems must be addressed for true positive change.
Myth 5: Allies should be recognized and praised for their efforts
Allyship is not about seeking recognition or accolades. It's about supporting marginalized communities without expecting anything in return. True allyship is driven by the desire to create positive change, rather than personal gain. Allyship is in the eye of the beholder, it cannot be a self-proclamation.
Myth 6: Allies should always be at the forefront of activism
Allies should recognize that their role is to support and uplift marginalized communities, rather than taking the spotlight away from them. Centering and amplifying the voices and experiences of those directly affected by systemic injustices is crucial. Allyship is about dropping your ego and doing what is right, even if it is hard.
Related: Every Leader Should Be an Ally: How To Implement Diversity and Inclusion in Your Business
Myth 7: Allies cannot be criticized
Feedback is a gift. Allies should be open to feedback and criticism. It's essential to listen to the concerns and perspectives of marginalized individuals and be willing to reflect on and improve their allyship practices. Constructive criticism can help allies grow and become more effective in their support. If someone's kind enough to give you feedback, they are trying to help you be better. Allies leverage feedback to learn and grow. It may be hard to understand something you haven't yet experienced as an ally. That's why feedback and learning are so critical.
Allyship is a journey, and it requires continuous self-education, empathy and action. It's important to recognize and challenge these myths in order to foster more inclusive and supportive communities.
In a world striving for social justice and equality, allyship plays a pivotal role. It requires consistent, intentional actions over time rather than mere check-the-box activities. By actively educating ourselves, listening, amplifying marginalized voices and taking meaningful action, we can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
