As someone working to create platforms for expression by all individuals, I and many others have noticed a trend in people that identify as “allies.” It is a tricky moniker that has been debated as much as the minority oppression its supporters claim to crusade against. The need some individuals feel to claim that descriptor is indicative of a troubling use of activism as identity for privileged individuals, and I believe that anyone who really wants to change systematic racism and promote solidarity should be working to do that rather than showing others that they are.
The tendency to label is one that stems from the beginning of white, male domination through rhetoric. From racial categorization under the auspices of “science” to self-ascribed descriptions of class, humans are drawn to claim descriptions of identity over reflection. It is something that all of us are influenced by, but I have come to recognize that there is no excuse for not being self-aware enough to monitor my behavior. That is what I suggest for someone who says they are an ally, whether it be to the LGBTQ+ community, women, minorities, or any other marginalized group. Please take the time to consider the following:
What are you doing that makes you an ally? Are you just signing online petitions and wearing a safety pin? While there is nothing inherently wrong with those actions, claiming an activist identity based on that level of commitment must be recognized as self-promotion, not helping anyone suffering from systems of oppression. If you fall into this category, I encourage you to visit pages of whatever group you want to support. Regardless of the organization, their website is more than likely to provide you with a variety of possible avenues for actual activism, but be prepared that much of it might not be public (that is how work happens).
Are you listening? Meaningful discussions with people from different experiences and are essential, but there are some things to keep in mind when you attempt to have dialogue. No one is responsible for explaining their identity or their experience to you. More than likely, a deeper understanding of oppression will come with a naturally developed relationship, not with a series of questions that would be more suitable for a spokesperson. Unless the individual you are approaching is being paid to serve in that role, it is not appropriate to treat them as such. If you do not have access to these relationships, the very same organizations you visited to find ways to help may also have links to published narratives (again, by individuals who were paid). Or, as Crissle and Kid Fury from The Read say, visit our good friend Google. That’s “G-O-O-G-L-E.”
Speaking of podcasts, check out any of the plethora of quality analysis and experiential conversations happening in that forum. I’d suggest Code Switch, Represent, Another Round and so many others. Also, watch 13th by Ava Duvernay. Just do it.
More than anything, keep in mind that helping to create equality is not about your identity. Unless you are advocating for yourself, this effort is not about doing something to make you feel better, but rather about doing what is right. Return to that as you evaluate your actions, especially before posting that Instagram of yourself wearing [insert activism merchandise here] with the hashtags of your choosing.