Allyship
A DEFINITION:
allyship: Making continuous commitments to recognize one’s privilege (based on gender, class, race, sexual identity, etc.) and act in solidarity with oppressed groups in the struggle for justice.
CONTEXT & HISTORY:
Allies understand that it is in their own interest to end all forms of oppression, even those from which they may benefit in concrete ways. (Georgetown University Library)
Someone who makes the commitment and effort to recognize their privilege (based on gender, class, race, sexual identity, etc.) and work in solidarity with oppressed groups in the struggle for justice. (Act For Social Justice)
Allyship is the start of recognizing and calling out microaggressions and discrimination. This looks like actively listening, immersing yourself in learning (books, podcasts, workshops) about the community to advocate for, starting to speak up, and practicing advocating for the least represented when no one is watching. Being an Accomplice is the next step. (The Anti-Racist Dictionary by Dr. Akilah Cadet)
MEDIA LINKS:
(updated slides from Courtney’s Foundations of Allyship forthcoming)
Edmonds Neighborhood Action Coalition 