The Power of Allies

In the work of Social Justice Advocacy, we rely heavily on the support from our allies. With race and diversity work, allies are individuals generally from another identity group that will support us in our work to be activist in making change happen. But, lately, I have been thinking of the power of our allies in day to day existence. At one workshop focused creating change in regards to diversity I heard a speaker use to key questions that we can use to guide us in our work to make a socially just society: What do I stand for? Who do I stand with?

We all need someone to support our ideas, our value, and our purpose in our daily lives. In many situations, being an ally is effortless. We naturally support those who experience life similar to ourselves. It is when we must feel those uncomfortable feelings, raise prickly questions, and engage in courageous conversations that our real work of being allies takes place.

Being an ally for those around us is an excellent step to stopping racism, sexism, classism and many other oppressive elements in our environment. It starts with awareness and courage. The other day I was listening to some people discuss their work in a community discussion group. In their opinion, their multi-ethnic group had discussed some very serious aspects of race within their community. However, the group was ready to take action. Their first thought was that it would be “safe” to start a book discussion since some of the members are not quite ready to move away from passivity and anonymity of group discussions. In a circle we can be present, but never engage. Change will never emerge from this source.

The best path to really become an agent for change is to return to those earlier questions: What do I stand for? Who do I stand with? Becoming an ally to those around us and joining with others who are equally passionate about creating a world where everyone really has an fair and equal chance is the best path to change. Otherwise, we are really doing more harm than good. If we believe in something and do nothing to make it happen, we are helping solidify the status quo. Things will never change without someone stepping forward and taking a stand.

Here are some tips to activating as an ally to those around you:

Self Awareness—Become aware of your life and how you walk in the world. What are your moments of privilege and oppression? Where do you have power and allies to help you?

Having the Courage and Willingness to Intervene—When you see or hear something that targets another race, culture, religion, or gender is the best time for allies to mobilize. But is starts with the ally accessing their courage to step forward. This does not mean to put yourself in physical danger. But it does mean you may need to jeopardize a friendship or two. Intervention can come in the form of something as simple as a question at a work meeting: Why have we so little diversity on our management team?

Lean Into Your Discomfort—This is a commonly used term of spiritual growth. To be effective, we must grow. In order to grow, we must feel a few growing pains. If it feels uncomfortable to intervene, ask a question, or take a stand, you should probably investigate the source of that discomfort. Is it fear of supporting something you know is right but is not popular among your friends? When it feels uncomfortable, check out why you feel that way.

Raise the “Prickly” Questions—As stated earlier, a good ally has the courage to ask those questions that address the “big elephant in the room”. Often times we have laws, policies, programs, and procedures that inadvertently exclude or target some groups or individuals. A question about these elements may be enough to help start a discussion that may produce change.  

Initiate and Engage in Deep Conversations about Diversity and Change—Allies make things happen. Starting a simple conversation in the break room, after church, at lunch with friends, at a party, in a department meeting are all great opportunities to begin the process of making change happen and supporting those around us.