Ask yourself what action you’re willing to take

I will admit that I’m especially triggered by people who talk a big game about how much they support this community or that group, and then don’t do anything to back it up. A couple challenges back, I referenced what I call self-proclaimed allies. That’s the group I’m really talking about - the individuals who seem to like the title but have no action to show for it.

Besides the fact that you don’t really get to call yourself an ally (it’s like walking up to a stranger and telling them you’re their friend), allyship is about taking action to bring about positive outcomes for historically excluded people. Truly meaningful action usually involves some level of risk - for your own reputation, your own sense of security, and sometimes even at the risk of being ostracized yourself - to ensure that people of marginalized backgrounds have access to opportunity, reward, safety, security, and dignity.

It’s about doing the things everyone tells themselves they would do. Speaking up when you witness an act of harm. Questioning a decision you know is based on bias. Offering support to someone who has been wronged and actually following through. 

With that in mind, think about what actions you’re prepared to take to demonstrate allyship. Examine where you have influence and where you can have an impact. This week, commit to one way you can start showing up differently in the interest of creating equitable outcomes. There are people who may really be counting on you to stand with them when it matters.